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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



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MEMOIR 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN. 



ME1IOIR/ ^^t 

OF 

SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, Esq 




Jfcount Mtutvt, aWatne, 



WITH A SHORT SKETCH 



OF THE LAST HOURS AND DYING SCENE OF HIS TWO 



BELOVED BROTHERS. 





By REBEKAH P. PINKHAM, 

OF SEDGWICK, MAINE. 




BOSTON: 

JAMES LORING, 132 WASHINGTON STREET. 

1836. 



. VOgrTk 



Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the Year 1836, 

BY CATHARINE MILLIKEN, 
in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Massachusetts 



£?.?'$ 



MEMOIR. 



CHAPTER I. 



In early life he sought the Lord, 
And found the way of truth ; 

Decided in his Master's cause, 
Though but a smiling youth. 



MR. MILLIKEN S CONVERSION. 

Simeon J. Milliken, Esq., son of Deacon 
Simeon, and Mrs. Rachel Milliken, of Mount 
Desert, was bora November 20th, 1805, and 
departed this life in the triumphs of faith through 
the Lord Jesus Christ, April 8th, 1835, aged 29. 
I shall here add some account of his first impres- 
sions of a serious nature, and his subsequent 
conversion to God, written by himself, and found 
among his papers. 

" The first that I recollect of any thing serious 
on my mind, I was about seven years old. My 
aunt Phebe died. My father talked to me about 
dying, and told me 1 must become good, or I 
never could go to God, and be happy with my 
2 



O MEMOIR OF 

aunt. Being very diffident, I made no inquiry 
as to the nature of being truly pious ; but thought 
much about it, and resolved that I would become 
good immediately. I had no idea of the new 
birth ; but thought I could do as Christians did, 
and that was enough. I commenced praying 
frequently, and thought when I could pray pretty 
well, I would take some boys with me and pray 
with them. I would not do any thing that I 
thought was wrong, and for some time, perhaps 
several weeks, 1 persevered in my resolutions, 
and kept an account of my good and bad deeds ; 
and verily thought I was very pious. I used fre- 
quently to talk to other boys when I saw them 
conduct wickedly. But alas, I soon forgot all 
my solemn resolutions. 

" In 1816, there was a great reformation in 
Mount Desert. I was then eleven. I now saw 
persons under conviction, and often wished it 
were the case with myself. Tn the course of the 
revival, my father and grandfather W. were talk- 
ing about a boy younger than I was, that they 
thought was under serious impressions of mind. 
It had a powerful effect on my mind. In the 
evening I went down to the harbour with my 
grandfather, and on the way he said to me, 
' Well Simeon, the reformation is about over, 
and what do you think of these things.' I ran 
close up behind him, and after some time I said 
in a stifled tone, C I don't know sir.' He said, 



SIMEON J, MILLIKENj ESQ.. 7 

* you see several of your companions have become 
religious, and don't you think it would be a good 
thing for you.' I made him no answer, and he 
said no more. I kept close to him, hoping he 
would again ask me some questions, and thought 
I would then tell him how T I felt. But he began 
to talk about other things, and [ could say noth- 
ing. 

" After this, I used frequently to go away by 
s myself to meditate on my lost state, but dared 
not attempt to pray. God appeared to me to 
be so great and holy that I thought he would not 
hear my prayer. I went one evening to the 
well, and while there, felt an impression that I 
must kneel down and pray. I kneeled, but 
could not say a word. Soon after this, I believe 
the same evening, I went into the barn and 
knelt down but could not say any thing for some 
time. While on my knees my distress for my- 
self all left me, and I felt anxious for others 
around me, particularly my brothers. I felt a 
freedom in praying for them, and stayed in the 
barn until the family became alarmed and sent to 
find me. I thought I would go in immediately 
and tell my feelings to a minister and his wife 
who were then at the house. They were busily 
engaged in conversation, and I took a seat beside 
the minister's wife, thinking she would soon say 
something to me, and then I would tell her the 
state of my mind. But the evening passed away 
without one word bein£ said to me. 



8 MEMOIR OF 

" I used frequently to retire to pray, and took 
great delight in it. But never felt such a desire 
to tell how I felt as I did that night. And being 
very diffident, never speaking to my superiors 
till spoken to, and then saying little more than 
yes or no. I kept my exercises entirely to my- 
self; and my impressions in a great degree wore 
off. Though 1 used to think of them, and the 
thoughts of what I had felt served as a check to 
keep me from committing a great many sins to 
which my evil nature led me. God appeared to 
me to be a holy being, and I feared to offend 
him, and would often shudder at my secret sins : 
I felt convinced that a new heart was all-impor- 
tant, but feared I had never experienced such a 
change, and was many times tempted to give up 
all thoughts of ever being converted, and to wait 
calmly for my doom, to enjoy what pleasure I 
could in this life, and await the consequences. 
But I have reason to thank the Lord that I never 
entirely yielded to these impressions, but hoped 
I should one day be brought to the knowledge 
of the truth. I always entertained a great re- 
gard for Christians, especially those that were 
engaged in religion ; and whenever the cause 
was wounded I felt distressed. When professors 
went out of the way I never felt a desire to ex- 
pose them, much less to slur them on account of 
their profession. 

" In November 1827, my brother Jordan 



SIMEON J, MILLIKEN, ESQ. V 

died, I was much distressed by the loss I had 
sustained, and my mind was unreconciled to God. 
I was tempted to believe he was the author of 
misery and unreasonably afflicted mankind. I 
thought for a time he was unjust in taking away 
my brother who had always lived so exemplary, 
and w T as needed for the good of society. I was 
tempted with these hard feelings some time, and 
then gave way to despondency. For about two 
months I was very thoughtless about dying, or 
the state of my immortal soul. One morning as 
I w r as about to leave home to teach a school in a 
neighboring town, my mother talked to me re- 
specting the state of my mind. She said she 
was afraid Jordan's death would only serve to 
harden me ; that it was a solemn call to me to 
prepare for death. She observed I might be 
called to answer at the bar of God for the deeds 
done in the body, perhaps more suddenly than 
my brother was. She followed me even to the 
door, and begged of me to improve this oppor- 
tunity, and turn to the Lord. I felt convicted 
in my own mind it was high time for me to 
repent. I turned out of the road, and sat down 
to meditate on my situation. I had one glance 
of the freeness of salvation, but instantly con- 
cluded it was not for me, that I had committed 
the unpardonable sin in giving away to the 
pleasures of this life, and forsaking God. 

c< I left the place, and went on trying to put 
2* 



10 MEMOIR OF 

such thoughts out of my mind. While engaged 
in my school, my mind at times was very much 
distressed ; but my school took up much of my 
attention, and I was frequently called to mingle 
with light company. I sometimes retired for the 
purpose of meditation and prayer ; but God 
would appear so great and so holy that I did not 
even dare to kneel, or send up one supplication 
to the throne of mercy. In this way I spent my 
time, sometimes rude, and then gloomy, and 
melancholy, hardly taking notice of any thing 
that passed for several days. At this time I was 
studying chemistry ; and the allusions of Mrs. 
B. to the majesty of God, would sometimes 
strike me with terror, and almost repress all idea 
of ever being made acceptable to him. 

" Early in 1828, it appeared evident that the 
Lord was working by his Holy Spirit on the 
minds of the people. I felt much distressed on 
account of my hardness. I don't know that I 
had any particular fear of punishment, and at 
times could hardly tell what caused my distress. 
The reformation increased, some came forward 
and joined the church, but I continued the same. 
About this time there was a lecture appointed 
near my father's. I was from home at work. I 
left my work and went home. When I got 
there, it was too late to attend meeting. I 
thought I would not lose my time. I took my 
bible and went into a retired room, and laid it on 



SIMEON J. M1LLIKEN, ESQ. 11 

the table, and my head upon it, and cried to the 
Lord to direct me to some passage that applied 
to my case. I opened to Jer. xxx : 15, and 
read three verses. ' Why criest thou for thine 
affliction. 5 In the last verse it was written, ' For 
I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal 
thee of thy wounds saith the Lord. 5 

" I was filled with joy, and arose to go out 
and tell my mother, when the family came in 
with other company from the meeting. I thought 
I would wait until they were seated, and then 
tell them all that I had experienced in my own 
mind ; but an incident occurred that put me off 
for a few moments, and I began to doubt, and 
concluded I was deceived, and that 1 never 
should have religion. This almost distracted 
me. I now viewed it a mere chance my open- 
ing to those passages of scripture, and concluded 
to say nothing about it, and see how it would 
prove with me. I could not, however, get them 
out of my mind, but had no idea of its being the 
effect of grace in my soul . I now attended se- 
cret prayers, morning and evening, and every 
other convenient opportunity. I consecrated a 
spot in the woods, near my father's house, par- 
ticularly for this purpose. Sometimes I would 
feel quite a freedom in prayer, and a nearness to 
the throne of grace. At times the exercises I 
had in former reformations would rise in my 
mind, creating a little hope that I had been bora 



12 MEMOIR OF 

again, and then I would throw away all my 
evidences, and recede into a cold unfeeling state 
of mind. Thus I continued two or three months. 

" About this time, Elder J preached at 

P. Marsh. Between meetings the ordinance of 
baptism was administered. I was much affected 
with the solemnities of the scene. In the after- 
noon he dwelt in his sermon on the exercises and 
trials of young converts. I thought it would ap- 
ply to myself. On my way home, an old Chris- 
tian asked me how I felt under the preaching. 
I told him I felt remarkably well. He observed 
he thought the minister pointed out my case 
exactly, and that he had been hearing for me 
during the afternoon. I told him I felt such 
confidence that I never could entertain another 
doubt. The expression struck me forcibly, why 
this confidence ? what have I experienced ? I 
then reflected back on my past life, and could 
see nothing but an evil and corrupt nature. I 
felt a desire at this time to pray, but put it off 
till my accustomed hour. And then my mind 
was in a great degree stupid, and I lost all hold 
of my former frames and exercises, and could 
hardly say that I had any hope. I sometimes 
felt a desire, and an impression, it was my duty 
to get up and speak in a prayer meeting ; but I 
declined, though strongly urged by one of the 
brethren who was somewhat acquainted with my 
feelings. 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 13 

" After this, when I retired for secret prayer, 
I was sensible that I had shunned my duty, and 
made a solemn promise I would speak the next 
meeting. I went to the meeting, and spoke and 
prayed but enjoyed no freedom, and found I had 
done it in my own strength. After this I was 
more reserved than before, and neglected secret 
prayer. 

" In January, 1831, J. S , a young man 

in the neighborhood died. While on his death 
bed, he conversed much with the young people 
that called to see him. And warned, advised, 
and entreated me to come out from the world. 
I now resolved that I would live no longer as I 
had done. I renewed secret prayer, and com- 
menced praying in my school, and frequently 
conversed with my scholars on the subject of 
religion. But it w T as some time before I felt any 
particular nearness to the throne of grace. For 
a considerable time I now felt that my peace was 
made with God, and that I could rise above the 
things of this world. During the week before 
the church conference in August, I enjoyed al- 
most uninterrupted happiness in my mind, and 
felt such a nearness to God that I thought I 
never should again forsake him as I had done, 
nor be backward in speaking of his goodness. I 
looked forward with pleasure to the time when I 
should see his children, and tell them what great 
things he had done for mv soul. 



14 MEMOIR OF 

M But when the day came, my heart sunk 
within me, when I contemplated espousing the 
cause of Christ before the world, yet I did not 
lose all my comfortable feelings. I felt to draw 
near the throne of grace in the morning, but had 
not that consolation I had before felt. I attend- 
ed the meeting ; when it came my turn to speak, 
I said but very little, concluding to put it off to 
a more convenient season. I now began to sink 
in my mind lower and lower, till almost as low 
as ever I was, although I did not wholly neglect 
secret prayer. About the last of November, 
1831, I commenced a school in E . I at- 
tended prayers in my school once a day most of 
the time, in a cold formal manner, though at 
times I felt to hold communion with my heavenly 
father. The state of religion here was very low, 
but three professors in the district. I mingled 
too much with the light and vain, and joined 
with them more than I ought in vanity. But 
w r hen alone I had bitter reflections, and mourned 
and lamented the depravity of my heart, resolv- 
ing to do so no more. About the last of Feb- 
' ruary, I took a school in S. Point district. Here 
I was with a different class of people. Here 
were many professors. I resolved to choose 
them for my companions, and to shun light com- 
pany." 

I would here observe, that Mr. Milliken 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 15 

labored for many years under severe conflicts in 
his mind with respect to his spiritual state, owing 
no doubt chiefly to his diffidence in disclosing 
his feelings to his Christian friends, and the view 
he appeared to have at times of the awful de- 
pravity and wickedness of his heart, which caused 
him frequently to doubt whether he had ever 
been renewed by divine grace. But in 1832, 
he w T as enabled to rise above his difficulties, 
and openly espouse the cause of Christ. On 
this occasion he remarks in his journal ; ' On the 
14th of October, I was baptised and received 
into the Baptist church in Mount Desert. O 
may 1 ever be kept by the power of God from 
bringing a wound on the cause I have now 
espoused.' 



CHAPTER II. 

He dwells upon God's holy ways, 
He notes'them down, bespeaks his praise; 
Though oft he was with doubts opprest, 
Yet oft in Christ his soul found rest. 

EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL. 

" 1827, December 31. Attended the first 
annual meeting of the Sabbath School Society 
of Mount Desert ; was chosen Secretary. No- 



16 MEMOIR OF 

vember 24 : Being absent from home, I was 
sent for on account of my brother Jordan who 
was taken suddenly very sick. When 1 arrived 
home I found him sitting in a chair, and asked 
him how he did. He said, " I am just gone, 
and must bid you farewell." He spoke very 
calmly ; but never shall I forget how those words 
sounded. He lived till half past two, and ex- 
pired. He was taken sick the day before about 
4 o'clock in the afternoon, with a pain in his 
bowels, and never had one moment's ease until 
he died. His mind was composed, and he ex- 
pressed a willingness to die, he hoped he should 
go to heaven. He never made a public profes- 
sion of religion, but was a remarkable person for 
sobriety and morality. In his last hours he gave 
good evidence that he had an interest in the 
Saviour's love. 

" 1829. On board the L bound to Bos- 
ton. Sabbath — 11. Spent the day in working 
the vessel, reading and hearing read, the scrip- 
tures, religious books, tracts, &c- I am of 
opinion that it is an evil and wicked practice to 
sail on the Lord's day. Think it no better, or 
of more necessity, than any other labor except 
when previously at sea. 

" 12. Went ashore, found a grog shop where 
men were voluntarily and greedily taking noxious 
poison, which will, if followed, finally be their 
ruin, destroy all their happiness in this world, 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 17 

and unfit their minds to receive that gift which 
alone can give them peace in the world to come. 
O when will men get their eyes open to see the 
evil of this pernicious practice ! 

" 1830. January 1. Another year has com- 
menced. How many that are now living, will 
be in eternity before the year will close. I may 
be one. I have no assurance even of to-morrow. 
Then how highly it would become me to take 
heed to my ways as if my time were soon to 
close ; but alas, how little I consider this. 

"29. Closed school in Seal Cove, a very 
agreeable school. My health a part of the time 
has been rather poor, but how thankful I should 
be that I am alive. I have lived to teach this 
school five winters, and have ever had a pleasant 
school, and the most respectful attention from 
my scholars, which has greatly evdeared them to 
me. The youth in no place where I am ac- 
quainted, not even those where I was brought 
up, are so dear to me. 

" 1832. February 18. Closed school in 
district No. 3, Eden. Taught twelve weeks, 
ten weeks of the time taught singing four eve- 
nings per week. In my day school I had up- 
wards of seventy scholars ; but they were rather 
unsteady in their attendance, consequently their 
progress w r as slow, some of them however made 
good-improvement. I am conscious of having 
committed some errors in management ; but on 
3 



18 MEMOIR OF 

the whole think I discharged duty as faithfully 
as I could under existing circumstances. Had I 
been previously acquainted with the disposition 
of the scholars, perhaps I should have managed 
differently in some respects. It is an incon- 
sistent idea which some people support, that a 
stranger can govern a school better than one who 
is acquainted with the scholars. How can a per- 
son govern or instruct, unless he knows some- 
thing of what is required of him, and different 
dispositions and capacities require different treat- 
ment. In my singing school I had 23 constant 
scholars. I was much pleased with their regular 
attendance, and most respectful deportment. I 
felt a deep interest in their improvement, and 
am satisfied that I exerted all my faculties to 
their advancement. But I lament that I did not 
give them more moral and religious instruction 
both by precept and example. 

" March 3. Attended the annual meeting of 
the temperance society in Eden. An address 

was delivered by Elder H , Cor. 2. There 

was quite a collection of people, and from what 
I heard, I think the truth made an impression on 
the minds of some who before were opposed to 
the temperance* movements, or stood aloof from 
the society. Its opponents cry out, c Political 
intrigue,' ' church and state,' &c. 

" 31. Attended conference. Many of the 
brethren appeared much engaged, and spoke 



SIMEON J. MILLIKENj ESQ. 19 

with freedom. I felt impressed that it was my 
duty to speak ; but refused to take up the cross. 
Have since been very much tried with a sense 
of my ungratefulness. Can a person under a 
sense of the attributes of the Almighty, refuse to 
do whatever he shall require of them ? What is 
man that he should withstand God ! How un- 
grateful must a person be to flinch from espous- 
ing the cause of the Lord that bought them. 

" April 8. This evening I took a walk for 
contemplation, viewed the majesty of God in the 
works of creation, and thought how can such a 
being take any notice of such a thing as man. 
Then in exercising to keep myself from suffer- 
ing from the cold, I was led to contemplate the 
wonderful formation of the human body. Surely 
nothing less than Deity itself could constitute 
such a machine, and nothing short of the Omni- 
present God can keep us from at once getting 
out of order and falling into lifeless clay. What 
is man that he should contend with his Maker ; 
and not yield implicitly to the least of his require- 
ments. But still, poor, proud mortal will pro- 
claim his own. greatness, and seek to gratify his 
own corrupt nature against the express com- 
mands of the Almighty ; and more fears the 
scoff of worms than the wrath of the great God. 
Why is it so ? Why am I so diligent and fear- 
less in things of the world, and yet in matters of 
religion dare not take one step ? Is it possible 



20 MEMOIR OF 

that I ever gave myself to the Lord, or felt a 
Saviour's smiles. Am I willing to trust my 
soul with Jesus ? O I am still too much at- 
tached to the world and its vain pleasures. Yet 
I think I have at times felt willing and resolved 
to give them up, but O the power of temptation 
over my feeble resolutions ! 

" 12. State fast. Meeting at N. C. Mr. 

B ; preached from Dan. ix. 4, and 5. Daniel 

fasteth, and prayeth, and confesseth his sins, and 
the sins of the people, &c. He observed that, 
fasting is to abstain from food ; at least from all 
that is pleasant and palatable, and to abstain 
from w 7 orldly thoughts, words, or deed. And 
that days of fasting were special seasons for 
humbling ourselves before God ; and confessing 
our sins and the sins of the people, our neigh- 
bors, our friends, the nation, and the world. He 
proved that fasting is a duty enjoined in the 
scriptures, both in the old and new testament ; 
and that we should especially attend to it on 
such days as are set apart for this purpose by 
our rulers. 

" 16. After my scholars left the school house, 
I took up the bible, with a desire to find some 
passage that would be applicable to myself, and 
opened to these words, ' Out of thine own mouth 
will I judge thee thou wicked servant.' I felt it 
to apply exactly to my case. The Lord has 
given me one talent and I have hid it. O shall 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 21 

I keep it hid till my Lord shall call me to judgment? 
With his divine assistance I will come out from 
the world and serve him. I feel a desire to give 
myself entirely up to God, and consecrate my- 
self to his service ; but I can put no confidence 
in myself. 1 pray the Lord to guide, strengthen, 
and support me in doing my duty ; and keep 
me humble. O I am too proud. My pride 
must be humbled. Because I cannot talk elo- 
quently, I hold my peace and say nothing for 
the cause of my Redeemer, and grieve away the 
Spirit that strives within me. O that I may 
ever enjoy the feelings I now possess, and in a 
greater degree, of the vanity of all worldly 
pleasures ; and never again fear the face of man 
when duty calls me. 

" October 7. Commenced school in District 
No. 2, Eden. Scholars from five different na- 
tions, i Italian, 1 Irish, 1 Spanish, 1 French, 
and a large number of Americans. 5 of my 
scholars profess religion, others very serious. 

" 13. What a change in this place since I 
was employed here last winter. Then except 

at Mr. H , I heard no mention made of 

religion. Now it is the whole theme of conver- 
sation. Then not a male professor except Mr. 

H in the district, now I can count 14. 

Then in a school of 80, not one had a hope of 
the forgiveness of their sins ; now the attention 
of all who have arrived to years of discretion, 
(except 3 or 4 who remain careless,) are directed 
3* 



22 MEMOIR OF 

to the concerns of their souls. 15 or more, who 
attended my singing school, have espoused the 
cause of the Redeemer ; and nearly all who 
practice singing in meetings 1 trust now sing with 
the heart and with the understanding. 

"20. My birth day, aged 27. O how 
rapidly time flies away ; another year of my life 
is gone. Time with me will soon be at an end. 
How important then that I improve it as it flies. 
Before another year rolls round I may be done 
with things below. How have I spent the past ! 
Have I spent it in such a manner that I can 
look back with a recollection of time well spent ? 
I can see but very few acts but what give me 
remorse when I review them in my mind. It 
has been an important year with me. Five 
months of the time I have been employed in the 
important calling of instructing youth ; and how 
negligent I have been in the discharge of the 
duties devolving on me in that station. When I 
do the best I can, I fall far short of fulfilling the 
duties of one who has the care of precious souls* 
Two months and a half, I have been employed 
in evenings, in teaching the youth to sing God's 
praises. At that time only one of them profes- 
sed religion ; now ten of those who take the 
seats have hope in the mercy of God. During 
the past year, I have taken upon myself two 
solemn covenants for life. On the 14th of Octo- 
ber I was baptised and received into the church 
in Mount Desert. O may I ever be kept by 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 23 

the power of God from bringing a wound on the 
cause which 1 have espoused. On the 25th of 
the same, I was married to C. L. May we 
long live useful to each other and to society ; 
and may the blessing of God attend us through 
a life of happiness here, and a blessed immortality 
beyond the grave. 

" 28. This morning I went into the grave- 
yard, and read the Epitaph on Mrs Unice Ste- 
vens, aged 27. The thought that she was just 
my age, struck me very forcibly. I tried to ex- 
amine myself how I should appear if called im- 
mediately to the bar of God. I bowed my knees 
to pray for light in my mind to view the scene, 
but could get no particular discovery. 

" My thoughts run on living near to God 
while here ; and I lost all concern about the 
judgment in my desires for the light of God's 
countenance to keep me near him while taberna- 
cleing in the flesh. From myself, my desires 
were for my friends individually. O that the 
Lord would visit them with his Holy Spirit, 
whether saints or sinners ; and give them the joy 
of his salvation." 

EPITAPH. 

It must be so — our father Adam's fall 
And disobedience, brought this lot on all : 
All die in him — but hopeless should we be 
Blest Revelation ! were it not for thee. 
Hail glorious gospel .' heavenly light ! whereby 
We live with comfort and with comfort die. 
And view beyond this gloomy scene the tomb 
A life of endless happiness to come. 



24 MEMOIR OF 



CHAPTER III. 



He warns, entreats his friends to turn, 
Now while the lamp of life doth burn ; 
Lest they should miss of heaven at last, 
And sink beneath Jehovah's wrath. 



LETTERS. 



" District No. 2. Eden, November 22, 1832. 

" Dear Sister, 

" I was disappointed in not having more 
conversation with you before I left home. If I 
had improved every opportunity I might have 
been better satisfied than I now am with regard 
to my duty to you. I want to know how you 
get along in your mind. Have you obtained 
hope in the rnercy of God, or do you remain as 
when I saw you, or shall I ask the question, 
have you lost your conviction ? I hardly know 
how to address you ; but I do long to hear that 
you have become acquainted with a Saviour's 
pardoning love. O Isiphenia, you don't realize 
how many prayers are offered every day foi 
your immortal soul. Will you not join your sup* 
plications with the many that are ascending, that 
God would liberate your soul from the bondage 
of sin ; and that you may obtain forgiveness 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 25 

through the blood of a Saviour ? The door of 
mercy now stands open to receive you ; and the 
Saviour invites you to come. 

" What is there to keep you from embracing 
the offers of salvation ? There is a fullness in 
the mercy of God ; and none that come to him 
will be rejected. The gospel is all promises to 
the repenting sinner, who is willing to accept the 
terms of salvation there offered. ' Repent and 
believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt 
be saved.' c Now is the accepted time, now is 
the day of salvation.' ' To day if you will hear 
his voice, harden not your heart.' Yield now to 
the calls you have received, to turn to the Lord, 
while you have your attention especially called 
to the concerns of your soul. Will you now go 
back ? Will you put it off to a more convenient 
season ? You may never have a more convenient 
season. You need not wait for a reformation : 
the Lord is as merciful now as in times of general 
excitement. And before a reformation in the 
place, you may be called to give up your final 
account to God. Then what answer will you 
give for having slighted the means of grace you 
have enjoyed ? 

" O Isiphenia, are you prepared to meet your 
God in peace ? Are you prepared to answer 
for this call to attend to the salvation of your un- 
dying soul ? When you visited here, you felt 
convinced of your need of religion ; and many of 



26 MEMOIR OF 

the young people here became interested in your 
case. They inquire frequently after you ; and 
manifest deep concern for your spiritual welfare. 
Have you not been cherishing selfish passions in 
your heart that has kept the serious out. He 
has been knocking at the door of your heart, 
and calling to you to open unto him that he 
might come in and sup with you, and you with 
him. The Saviour is ready to forgive you. His 
arms are extended to receive you ; and why will 
you stay away. I know you desire the knowl- 
edge of the Lord. But I am afraid you wish to 
serve God and mammon. This is impossible, 
Isiphenia. You must be willing to forsake every 
thing in this world, if you would be a disciple of 
the meek and lowly Jesus. You must be will- 
ing to forsake your vain companions. When, 
with them, you must not be afraid to be called 
serious, and to speak against every thing that 
will drive serious meditations from the mind. 
Unless you are willing to sacrifice every thing of 
a light and trivial character, and even forsake 
your own vain thoughts, you will not find per- 
fect peace. 

" I want you to write me your exercises of 
mind. Take up your views of yourself, and of 
God, at different times ; and what first led you 
to serious reflection, and what has a tendency to 
lead your mind away from the concerns of your 
soul. Be free and write particularly. The 



SIMEON J. MILLJKEN, ESQ. 27 

reformation still progresses here, six have been 
baptised since I come over. One was J. H.'s 

daughter M 3 aged 13. Six of my scholars 

belong to the church. But there are some yet 
who desire not the knowledge of the truth ; and 
even oppose. I get along very comfortably in 
my own mind most of the time, though I don't 
enjoy that light and love that I wish to. My 
health is good generally ; but I have a pain in 
my side this evening. I am now boarding at 
Aunt E s. The family consist of nine per- 
sons, six of whom profess religion. What a 
blessing I enjoy of religious company ! 
" Your brother, 

" S. J. MlLLIKEN." 

" District No. 2. Eden, November 14, 1832. 

" My dear Catharine, 

" How do you enjoy your mind ? I want 
to hear you praising God for bringing you into 
the light and liberty of the blessed gospel. I 
believe there is nothing in the way on God's 
part, of your enjoying comfort in your mind. 
The Lord is gracious and merciful to all that call 
on his name. He is as ready to bless you as 
any other. O look, with an eye of faith, to the 
blessed Jesus, that suffered so much while in 
this world for sinful man, and then to die on 
Calvary that we might have life. O the con- 



28 MEMOIR OF 

descension of the Son of God ! That after we 
had transgressed the perfect laws of our Maker ; 
and exposed ourselves to the justice of the Al- 
mighty, he should come into this world, and 
give his life a ransom for our souls. Does not 
this affect your heart ? Are you not willing to 
make any sacrifice he requires ? Are you not 
willing to give up all your friends and all your 
prospects of worldly enjoyment, if God should 
call for them ? Are you not willing to lay down 
your own life for Him ? But he requires no 
such sacrifice. It is only to ' look and live.' It 
is only to look above the things of this world on 
heavenly and divine things. It is only to for- 
sake trials for pleasures, and troubles for happi- 
ness. There is a peace of mind, and a satisfac- 
tion in serving the Lord, that the world knows 
nothing of. Even the trials of Christians are 
mingled with joys, when they can look on Christ 
as their friend, knowing that nothing can harm 
them, while they have such a protector, and that 
' all things work together for good to them that 
love God. 5 

" When Christians feel their dependence on 
God, and their need of his blessing, there is un- 
speakable satisfaction in pouring out the soul in 
prayer to him ; and there is something satisfying 
in warning sinners of their danger, and flee from 
the w T rath to come, while mercy is offered to all 
who will accept. Christians are also delighted 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 29 

when they can be together, speaking of the 
goodness of God, and praising his holy name, 
and in fulfilling his commands. Is it not time 
for you to avow yourself on the Lord's side ? 
Have you not felt that it was your duty to sepa- 
rate yourself from the world, and unite with the 
people of God ? Well, duty is duty till done. 

" Do you feel too weak in faith, and doubt 
that your hope is genuine ? Then go to the 
Lord just as you are, and plead with him to 
enlighten your mind : and if you are not sincere, 
that he would make you so. And be not faith- 
less, but believing. Be thankful for the least 
discovery of his goodness, and be willing to ac- 
cept of the crumbs that fall from his table. We 
have no claims on his mercy, and it is our duty 
to love him for what he is, a just, and righteous 
God, whether he smiles on us or not. O how 
good the Lord is, that he should ever have com- 
passion on such rebellious creatures as we are. 
Surely we should love such a God. I must for- 
bear writing more at present. 

" O Catharine, live near the Lord. Be much 
in prayer. Be watchful over your life and con- 
versation, and your own thoughts. And may 
the Lord liberate you from the snare of the 
devil, and the fear of man, and bring you to re- 
joice in the light of his countenance, and ever 
ready to speak of his goodness. 

" Simeon J. Milliken." 



30 MEMOIR OF 

" P. S. It is eleven o'clock, Saturday night. 
I have written three letters this evening in the 
family where four or five are continually talking, 
and to me half the time. My eyes are so weak 
that I cannot look on the paper long at a time. 

" Simeon." 



" District No. 2. Eden, December 1, 1S32. 



" My Dear C- 



"In this severe storm, I think something 
of the storm of life to which we are exposed ; 
and the wrath of the Almighty that will be 
poured out on the ungodly in the great day of 
retribution of all things. But am very stupid 
and insensible of the mercy of God, in providing 
a way of escape from the impending fury of his 
justice, in the dying love of his only begotten 
Son. 

" I don't know as I have been so low in my 
affections since I attended the protracted meet- 
ing here in September, as I have been the week 
past. The reformation has not taken so deep 
hold in this, as in the Salsbury district, where I 
kept last winter. I was up there to a prayer 
meeting last Thursday. When the meeting com- 
menced there was not a person present who had 
made a public profession of religion three months 
ago, now fifteen or twenty. When I am here I 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 31 

feel myself almost at home. I was much at- 
tached to the people last winter, for their kind- 
ness to me, particularly my singing scholars. 
The Lord has abundantly blessed this neighbor- 
hood with the out pouring of his Holy Spirit. 
Not a family has escaped its influence ; and it 
seems as if almost all were Christians. There are 
some still w T ho appear to be under serious con- 
victions. Two or three of the singers yet stand 
out, but there has been truly a great work among 
them. It seemed to commence with them. Nine 
of them have been baptised of late, and one be- 
longed to the church before. I expect to com- 
mence a singing school here next Monday, and 
anticipate having an agreeable school, but may 
be disappointed. 

(i Simeon." 



How anxious that his partner dear, 
Should God alone — not creatures fear ; 
Deny herself, take up the cross, 
And count her worldly gain but dross. 

His sister too with aching heart, 
He does entreat with sin to part ; 
To turn to God while in her youth, 
Obey his word ; and love the truth. 

Now may the Lord these truths impress, 
And to their souls his warnings bless ; 
While he is slumbering in the dust, 
His spirit soaring with the just. 



32 



MEMOIR OF 



CHAPTER IV. 



The care of youth — he feels the weight, 
When'er he views their undone state ; 
His language is " how short I come, 
When 1 the best I can have done." 



EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL. 

" 28. This evening attended a prayer meet- 
ing in the school house. Christians generally- 
appeared to enjoy their minds during the meet- 
ing. But I was all darkness ; I tried to speak 
and pray, but had no freedom. I can assign 
many causes for my barrenness. My mind has 
been on some complex worldly business, and I 
neglected to watch and pray. I thought I had 
no time to spend in prayer before meeting ; even 
in meeting my mind was too much filled with 
the business of the world. When a Christian 
neglects to watch and pray he cannot expect to 
enjoy the comforts of a Saviour's presence. 

" December 3. Commenced a singing school 
this evening in No. 3. About twenty-five at- 
tended as scholars. While in school, a person 
called to inform me that S. L. died this morn- 
ing. Poor girl ; how much she has suffered. 
For nine years she has not been able to take 
one step ; and has scarcely seen a well day ; yet 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 33 

by her industry and economy, she has paid a 
great part of her doctor's bill, for the last four 
or five years. 

" After school, went to Capt. H- s. Was 

called on to attend prayers in the family. Had 
no freedom. Never attended to this solemn duty 
in a more formal unfeeling manner. O am I 
never again to enjoy the light of God's counte- 
nance, and hold sweet communion with him in 
prayer ? Or have I been deceiving myself with 
a false hope of the sweets of the influence of the 
Holy Spirit, and witness of the forgiveness of 
sins through the dying love of a Saviour. 1 
think at times I have enjoyed something in secret 
prayer, which flowed from some other source 
than my own corrupt nature. But where am I 
now ? and what is the cause of this barrenness 
of soul? I can see many causes in myself, and 
resolve in future to amend. There is something 
wonderfully strange in our natures, that we should 
persist in a course that we know to be wrong ; 
and that will certainly lead us into trials and 
troubles. It surely proves the entire depravity 
of the natural heart ; and that it must be changed 
by the grace of God before it will pursue a holy 
course ; and even then it requires the continual 
influence of the Holy Spirit to keep us in the 
path of duty. 

" This day closes the year 1832. Another 
year is gone. How fast time glides away; and 
4* 



34 MEMOIR OF 

how poorly I improve the passing moments. 
Let a review of misspent time in past years stimu- 
late me to better improvement for the future. 
During the year past 1 have been carried through 
various scenes, some prosperous others adverse. 
Throughout the year, the Lord has preserved 
my life and health ; and I trust has given me 
some witness of the presence of his Holy Spirit, 
to renew me in heart and life. For more than 
four years I have hoped in the forgiving grace of 
God, applied to my soul ; but never had that 
comfortable evidence that I have enjoyed part of 
the time since last September, when I attended 
the protracted meeting in this place. I then felt 
at times no doubt of my acceptance with God.; 
but since that, my feelings have greatly changed. 
For several weeks I have been in a tried state, 
frequently ready to give up all hope. Then 
again at other times I think I have sweet com- 
munion with my God in secret. But I am in a 
cold backsliden state. O when shall I be willing 
to forsake every worldly pleasure, and live 
wholly unto the Lord ? I have such a proud 
heart that I am not always willing to be singular 
for Christ's sake ; but find I am too often lead 
astray by trifling and unprofitable conversation 
when in company with those who do not pro- 
fess the religion of the meek and lowly Jesus. 
Whether I am a Christian or not, I desire to live 
a life of religion ; and prefer religious to worldly 
company. 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, Esq. 35 

u Last year at this time I was in this place, 
teaching a reading and singing school. Since 
that time the Lord has poured out his Spirit here 
in a wonderful manner. Then there was but 
one family altar erected in the district, and only- 
four public professors. Now, prayers are at- 
tended in several families, and nearly one half 
who have come to years of discretion, have es- 
poused the cause of Christ. Only one of the 
singers professed religion at that time. And I 
often wept over (hem when 1 thought of their 
undying souls and the forbearance of God, to- 
ward them, when I heard them sing his praises 
in so thoughtless a manner. Now the most of 
them profess to be on the Lord's side, and ap- 
pear as if their motive in singing is to worship 
God. O that they may all know a Saviour's 
love ; and be kept by the Holy Spirit from sin- 
ning against him. 

" 1833. January 1. A new year has com- 
menced, the close of which I may never see. 
While I do live, may I improve my precious 
time more to the glory of God than I have done 
in years past. I know that I have some desire 
to lead a better, and more exemplary life ; and 
sometimes I think I have some sincere desires to 
live a holy life, devoted to the service of God. 
But I have an evil nature within me that leads 
me into by and forbidden paths. The good I 
would, that I do not ; and the evil I would not, 



36 MEMOIR OF 

that I do. O wretched man that I am, who shall 
deliver me from this body of sin and death. 

" 8. Conference in the school house. The 
house was filled ; and the spirit of the Lord was 
abundantly shed down on his people. O what 
wonderful mercy the Lord has shown this peo- 
ple. When we were deserving wrath, he re- 
membered mercy. And although we have been 
negligent in duty, yet he smiles upon us. Though 
we have been faithless and unbelieving, he still 
visits us with love. This is a day long to be 
remembered by the people of God here. May 
we never be so ungrateful as to forget this day 
of his power. May the union manifested by the 
brethren, ever be continued to this church. Two 
related their experience and were fellowshiped 
by the church as candidates for baptism. There 
were others that intended to offer themselves, 
but thought they had not strength to take up the 
cross. I believe God has some precious ran- 
somed souls here, who are yet lingering and 
neglecting their duty. I hope there are many 
more precious souls to be brought out of nature's 
darkness, into the marvellous light of the gospel. 

" 10. Enjoyed a good degree of comfort in 
meditating on the mercies of our God ; and felt 
to hold sweet communion with him in prayer. 

"11. Received a letter from aunt W , 

informing me that the Lord was pouring out his 
Spirit in P. M. O what infinite mercy. How 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 37 

great is my obligations to bless bis holy name. 
May be still continue to pour out his spirit upon 
them ; and they be a people truly waiting for 
his law. Nothing could have raised my affec- 
tions, and caused me to praise my God more 
than to hear of the outpouring of his Holy Spirit 
among this people. For three or four months I 
have not forgotten to make mention of them in 
every prayer. And now 7 blessed be God, I hear 
his cause is revived, and sinners are converted 
unto God. Every blessing is mixed with trials. 
I have heard that my brother William is very 
sick ; and it is thought he will not recover. He 
has been complaining for sometime, and is now 
considered to be in a settled consumption. O 
that God would remember his precious soul." 



CHAPTER V. 

The Holy Spirit doth descend, 
And stubborn hearts to truth must bend ; 
The cry now is — u O pray for me, 
Lest I should sink in misery ." 

EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL. 

" 27. A meeting in Center school house. 
Elder B. preached : after sermon several voung 
converts exhorted. Seven of them were young 



3S MEMOIR OF 

men. In the evening was a prayer meeting 
never to be forgotten ; and which it is impossible 
fully to describe. It was the most solemn and 
joyful season I ever experienced. A number of 
strong minded middle aged men arose, and beg- 
ged Christians to pray for them. A number of 
youth under a sense of their lost, ruined situa- 
tion, made the same request. It was truly a 
melting season that language cannot describe. 
During the meeting, a young man came, and 
whispered to me to pray for his soul, for he was 
bound to destruction, and feared there was no 
mercy for him. He said he had been called so 
many times, that he was now afraid the Lord 
would leave him to go on in his sins. He ap- 
peared to be in as much distress as he could ap- 
parently bear. After I tried to pray for him, he 
was a little more composed ; and requested 
Christians all to pray for him. A deep interest 
was evidently felt for his case ; and such fervent 
prayers were offered for him, that it seemed the 
Lord himself indited the petitions. 

" Mr. B. asked a young man, who appeared 
indifferent, if he should present his case for the 
prayers of Christians. He answered very indif- 
ferently, ' You may do as you please. 5 One of 
his companions could keep in no longer, but 
poured out his soul in a most fervent supplica- 
tion to God to have mercy on him. Toward 
the close of the meeting, he crowded along to me ; 



SIMEON J. M1LLIKEN, ESQ. 39 

and observed, he really believed it was the work 
of God, and that he w 7 as converting sinners ; and 
they were all going to be taken ; and he should 
be left to eternal destruction. He was as sure 
of it as he was alive, that he was given over to 
hardness of heart, and blindness of mind, to rush 
headlong into eternal misery. He begged of me 
to pray for him, that his eyes might be opened, 
to see his awful situation before God. He ap- 
peared almost as solemn as eternity. I could 
pour out my soul with freedom that God would 
have mercy upon him. 

" O never shall I forget the feelings T had for 
these two young men. O Lord what am I that 
they should come to me with such solemn re- 
quests. O that God would make me what I 
ought to be ; and prepare me by his Holy Spirit 
to be useful in his blessed cause, and to my fel- 
low creatures. I am a poor unworthy creature. 
How unlike my blessed Lord and Master ! What 
a proud deceitful heart! Is it possible that I 
can be a child of God and so unlike him. O 
my God, have mercy upon me, and grant unto 
me, thine unworthy servant, the light of thy 
countenance, and enable me to be active, and 
humbly engaged in thy cause. I think I do feel 
for precious souls, and long for their salvation, if 
I am cast off myself. And I do desire to live a 
life of religion, if I must be condemned at death. 
After the meeting closed, my companions flocked 



40 MEMOIR OF 

around me, entreating me to pray for them. It 
was enough to melt a heart of stone. O Lord 
give me a spirit of prayer, and have mercy on 
their precious souls. 

" February 2. Attended conference at Seal 
Cove, M. D. Fourteen related their experi- 
ence, eight of them offered themselves, and were 
accepted as candidates for baptism. Emphati- 
cally, may we say in this place, what hath God 
wrought ! 

" 10. Lord's day. Felt tolerably comforta- 
ble during meeting. But my mind was much of 
the time with the people at P. M. Souls here I 
know are as precious as theirs ; and I have 
thought I have felt as much interest for this peo- 
ple, especially the singers, as ever I should feel 
for any people. During the reformation here 7 
my whole soul seemed bound up in them. But 
now the Lord is pouring out his spirit in my na- 
tive place. I find they have the first place in 
my affections. I feel condemned that I am no 
more engaged in the Redeemer's cause, and the 
good of souls in this place. They are as pre- 
cious as ever ; and there are many who are still 
living without God and hope in the world. A 
number of the singers are yet under the bondage 
of satan. O that God would prepare them to 
sing his praise with the heart, and with the un- 
derstanding also. But I desire to bless his name 
that I trust he has given a new heart to more 



SIMEON J. MILL1KEN, ESQ,. 41 

than half their number. O that we might live 
more devoted to the cause of our blessed Mas- 
ter, and recommend both by our lives and con- 
versation to a dying world, that there is a reality 
in the religion of Jesus ; and this alone can make 
us happy. O Lord, enable us to be more sober 
minded ; and may the worth of precious souls 
lie near our hearts. Teach us, and assist us, to 
set good examples before our unconverted com- 
panions. 

" 11. Have had for some time an impres- 
sion to converse with one of my singers, on the 
concerns of her precious soul. I have felt that 
I was neglecting a known duty. This evening 
I dared to neglect it no longer. I remarked to 
her, that she appeared once anxious about the 
concerns of her soul. She replied, that she 
needed religion now, as much as she did then ; 
and immediately burst into tears. By her con- 
versation, I am led to believe that she is now- 
inquiring the way to Zion. I had received an 
impression that she was almost given over to 
hardness of heart, and the Spirit of God had en- 
tirely forsaken her ; and that her case w T as al- 
most or quite hopeless. Notwithstanding, I felt 
several times an impression that it was my duty 
to converse with her on this solemn subject ; but 
the cross appeared so great I excused myself 
with an ' it is of no use. y Soon as I opened my 
mouth, the cross disappeared. I now feel that I 
5 



42 MEMOIR OF 

have lost much personal satisfaction, as well as 
opportunities, when, perhaps, I might have done 
some good. The path of duty is a safe one, 
and very easy ; but the way of the transgressor 
is hard. 

" 14. There are two of my scholars who ap- 
peared anxious in their minds last fall ; and I 
thought they would embrace the Saviour. One 
of them is yet quite thoughtful and tender in her 
mind. I have had no opportunity to converse 
with the other. I do feel anxious for their con- 
version. I fear sometimes I am selfish and par- 
tial. I know I am more interested for some than 
others. It is really desirable that singers should, 
with the heart, perform their part, in the wor- 
ship of God. 

" This evening, have been reading an account 
of the life, and death, of two young ladies. The 
one that had all the polish of fashionable life, 
and possessed and enjoyed every pleasure that 
the world could bestow, had her mind several 
times arrested with a sense of the importance of 
religion ; but with the advice and assistance of 
her parents she banished all serious reflections. 
While in the theatre she swooned, was carried 
home, and after a few hours of the most horrid 
forebodings, her soul forsook the body to meet its 
final Judge. The other was educated in a pious 
manner ; and went off the stage with a song of 
triumph in her mouth. How strangely infatuated 



SIMEON J. M1LLIKEN, ESQ. 4o 

mankind are, that they should neglect the con- 
cerns of their immortal souls ; that they should 
prefer the pleasures of this world, to the substan- 
tial happiness of the Christian religion ; that 
while they know that death will come upon 
them, and believe there is a God to judge them, 
they will rest unconcerned about a preparation 
for that all important scene ! 

" 16. Prayer meeting this evening. Chris- 
tians appeared to feel very comfortable in the 
enjoyment of the presence of God. I felt a calm 
reliance in the mercies of a Redeemer 

u 18. In closing my singing school, I felt as 
if I could not pray. I asked J. E. to close the 
school. He prayed with an humble engagedness 
for the singers, for those who hoped in the 
mercy of God that they might not be deceived, 
and build on a false foundation ; but that they 
might be sincere followers of the Lord Jesus, and 
devote themselves to his service. He prayed 
for those who were still without hope, with 
a heart full of compassion ; and with such hum- 
ble supplication, that I do feel encouraged that 
the Lord will again revive his work among 
them. I do feel anxious for these singers, that 
they might all experience the love of a Saviour, 
and the forgiveness of sins. O that God would 
purify me. 

" 23. Received a letter from aunt W , 

giving some account of the powerful progress of 



44 MEMOIR OF 

the work of the Lord in Mount Desert. I be- 
lieve I can sincerely rejoice in the salvation of 
sinners ; yet I hardly dare to trust my own heart, 
it is so wofully treacherous." 



CHAPTER VI. 

How deep an interest ; how impressed 
With sabbath schools ; he cannot rest, 
Without instructing children dear, 
God's holy sabbaths to revere. 

EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO MR. E . 

" Mount Desert, April 29, 1833. 

" Dear Friend. — You wished to know the 
particulars with respect to the reformation in this 
place. I have not time now, nor abilities to in- 
form you what wonderful things the Lord has 
done for this people ; but I fear we shall soon 
forget his works. Already there appears to be 
a relaxation of engagedness in duty. Do pray 
that the Lord may still pour out his Holy Spirit 
upon us. 

" We have now a young man, Mr. Calvin L. 
Carey, laboring with us. He is up with the spirit 
of the times in good causes. Yesterday he gave 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 45 

us an address on Sabbath schools. I am really 
sorry that you did not succeed better in so good 
a cause. Sabbath before the last, I was so filled 
with the subject, that I went home with the in- 
tention of writing you a long letter upon this in- 
teresting subject ; but a circumstance occurred 
which prevented. I was disappointed, and de- 
prived of anticipated pleasure ; for then I could 
have written with freedom and delight. 1 have 
had no opportunity since ; and now those special 
views are gone. After meditating on the happy 
effect of Sabbath schools, I was greatly astonish- 
ed that any person should withhold from them 
his most cordial support — much less a Christian 
— one that believed the truth of God's word, 
and reverenced his holy day, should be opposed 
to an institution, directly tending to promote 
these objects. I have no time to write more. 

" Don't be discouraged ; but press forward in 
the path of duty. 

« S. J. MlLLIKEN." 



EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO MR. E . 

H Mount Desert, May, 1833. 

" Dear Brother, 

" I should like to know how you get along 
in singing, and w T hat success in your efforts to 
have a Sabbath School since your meeting. 
5* 



46 MEMOIR OF 

That such men as should stand aloof from 

this institution, astonishes me. Surely they are 
ignorant of its merits ; and the blessings that have 
attended it. I am now in Seal Cove school 
house, waiting for the commencement of the 
school ; and can write but little more, as the 
teachers and scholars are mostly collected. What 
a pleasing sight to see the blooming youth, little 
children, and aged people, assembling together, 
to hear, and tell about the God that made them ; 
and to learn his holy will concerning them. Pro- 
bably you have heard Mr. C preach to day. 

He is a thorough friend to Sabbath Schools ; and 
all the benevolent institutions of the present day. 
The school is about commencing and I must 
close. 

" S. J. MlLLIKEN." 
LETTER TO MR. E . 



" Mount Desert, December 14, 1833. 

" Dear Brother, 

" Apology is certainly due from me, for 
my neglect of so intimate and esteemed a friend 
as brother Emery. To enumerate all the causes 
which have prevented my writing to you would 
be impossible : 1 will merely say, that it is not 
because I had forgotten you ; but that one care 
followed after another, and I would put it off till 
a more ( convenient season.' Thus the seasons 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 47 

have passed without my writing to you. We 
may ' resolve and reresolve' to perform any duty ; 
but unless we commence it we shall never per- 
form. And we have no time to waste in idle 
resolutions. How proper the injunction \ What- 
soever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy 
might. 5 We have just time to do what is our 
duty to do. And if we postpone to future time, 
what ought to be done at the present, we tres- 
pass on the indulgence of Him who has appoint- 
ed us a sphere for activity, and given us time for 
its performance. We are placed here for no 
mean purpose — to show forth the glory of God. 
And what blessed w T ork there is for the saints of 
God — to hold up to a dying world, the love of 
the Saviour. How delightful must it be to the 
living Christian. What a glorious thought to be 
workers together with God, in the salvation of 
sinners. How poorly all the honors of this world 
compare with that of being the means of saving 
one soul from the end of the wicked. And O, 
astonishing thought, that one that has seen the 
justice of God against sin, and the way of recon- 
ciliation to him, through a crucified Redeemer, 
can sit still and view with indifference, their fel- 
low men hastening on to eternal perdition. O 
c my leanness, my leanness P 

'•' Since I left Eden last spring, the Lord has 
been pleased to visit your place with death. 
Poor litttle Jane is no more in the land of the 



48 MEMOIR OP 

living. Had I heard of it in season, I should 

have come over with Mr. C to her funeral ; 

but perhaps it would have done no good, except 
to gratify my feelings. However, I know the 
sympathies of a friend are consoling in times of 
affliction. And all who knew her must feel 
afflicted by this dispensation of Providence. Her 
tender parents must keenly feel the rod. But I 
hope they have consolation in believing it was 
ordered by Him who doeth all things well. 
Affliction is the lot of all, and if rightly im- 
proved, may be considered a blessing bestowed 
by God, on his chosen people. David says, ' In 
faithfulness hast thou afflicted me.' c It is good 
for me that I was afflicted.' ' Before I was 
afflicted I went astray ; but now I keep thy 
word.' And if afflictions lead us to God, we may 
well say it is good for us to be afflicted. For 
what earthly comfort can compare with com- 
munion with our heavenly Father. But nature 
bleeds, when our dear friends are taken from us. 
And we should not view the dealings of God 
with us with indifference. 

" Give my respects and tender affection to the 
parents of our deceased friend, and to all the 
surviving children. The Lord has been good to 
them. And I hope they realize the blessings 
with which they are surrounded. It is a blessed 
consideration, that so many of them have sought 
the Lord, and hoped in the pardoning mercy of 
God 3 through a crucified Redeemer. 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 49 

" I have been deeply engaged in worldly busi- 
ness of late, and consequently have had barren- 
ness of soul. I hope you are better employed. 

" S. J. MiLLIKEN." 



CHAPTER VII. 

How pleasant 'tis to see the youth 
Now turn to God — in love with truth ; 
Give up their hearts to him in time, 
That they in glory soon may shine. 

EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL. 

"25. In closing my school, I read the 24th 
chapter of Acts. Several of my scholars I 
knew had been concerned for the salvation of 
their souls ; but had not given their hearts to 
Christ. With considerable freedom, I addressed 
them from the 25th verse, and applied it to 
their case. They all appeared very solemn, 
while I was talking ; but as soon as school was 
dismissed, I found they were inclined to wait 
* a more convenient season.' I felt more liberty 
in prayer than 1 have enjoyed for some time. 

" 26. Closed school in No. 3, Eden. It 



50 MEMOIR OF 

has been one of the most pleasant schools I 
ever taught. The scholars have endeared 
themselves to me. With a few exceptions, no 
person was ever treated better, or with more 
familiar respect. Many of these children and 
youth will be ever held by me in the most 
grateful remembrance. In my closing remarks 
I felt a good degree of freedom in addressing 
them on the concerns of their never dying souls. 
Several of them were affected. And I do hope 
that God will turn them from the error of their 
ways. 1 trust that some of them have experi- 
enced the forgiveness of sin. Five of those 
that were present, hope in the mercy of God. 
I feel to lament that I have not been more faith- 
ful in conversing with them about their standing 
before their Maker. It is not probable I shall 
ever teach this school again. And I can now look 
back with regret to the many precious moments 
that I have idled away in unprofitable conversa- 
tion with them, while the concerns of their im- 
mortal souls have seldom been mentioned. To 
some I felt a diffidence in mentioning the sub- 
ject, expecting opposition. But being impelled 
by a sense of duty, and not finding any excuse, 
I have introduced the subject to them, and 
found them very attentive ; and it has been a 
satisfaction to my own mind, so that I have re- 
solved that I never would be backward again, 
when I felt an impression it was my duty to 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 51 

speak. O that I had more discovery of the 
character of God, and my obligations to serve 
him. I am so depraved and sinful, I cannot do 
much good in the cause of the blessed Redeemer. 

" 27. I have heard that the Lord is still 
pouring down his Holy Spirit in Mount Desert, 
in a most powerful manner. The proudest, and 
most hardened sinners, have been brought to 
bow before the truth of the blessed gospel. Mr. 

O has lately obtained a hope in his old 

age, the Lord has shown him mercy at the 
eleventh hour. 

" 28. I have heard, among others, my sis- 
ter P. M. has experienced religion. What joy- 
ful news to me. The blessed Lord has brought 
down her proud heart. O that she may be as 
faithful in the cause of her Redeemer, as she 
has been in the cause of the old adversary 
— -that such talents as God has given her may be 
employed in his service. What a blessing the 

Lord has bestowed on the family of Mr. B . 

For thirty or forty years I believe he has been 
praying for the conversion of sinners. And now 
the Lord has answered his prayers by convert- 
ing, we believe, his whole family — his wife, and 
eight or nine children. Long has he stood as a 
pillar in the church of God ; and faithfully has 
he encouraged and endeavored to sustain her in 
her trials. 

" February 28. Went home. I was sur- 



52 MEMOIR OF 

prised to find my brother William so low. ' He 
said he was just gone, but was reconciled to the 
will of God.' He observed, sometimes he felt 
a desire to get well, but God's will be done. 
He thought he could trust in the mercy of God ; 
and hoped he had forgiven his sins ; but he 
lamented that he had not attended to religion 
while in health ; and that he had spent so much 
of his time in vanity. One thing he said would 
be a great satisfaction to him to have all his 
novels burnt, that they might do no more hurt. 
They were one means of his living such a life 
as he had — that when his mind was disturbed 
in the last reformation, instead of going to the 
word of God, he had recourse to novels to gain 
relief. I asked him what 1 should write to 

C who was absent. Tell him, said he, 

the Saviour is merciful ; and ' he must pray to 
him while he has time and opportunity.' 

" March 6. William died last night about 6 
o'clock. He has left us a comfortable evidence 
that he was prepared to meet his Judge. His 
mind was relieved from its distress about three 
weeks before he died. He appeared perfectly 
reconciled to the will of God, let him do with him 
as he pleased. He lamented much the manner 
he had spent his time ; and that reading novels 
was one great cause of his neglec ing to read 
the word of God. I observed to him just be- 
fore he died, I thought he could not live long. 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 53 

He said ' No ; I shall soon be with Jesus.' Just 
before he breathed his last, he said something, 
but I could only understand the word ' Jesus.' 

" 7. William was buried at P. M. Elder 

B preached from Job xiv. 10. It was 

indeed a solemn season. After sermon, father 
addressed the people of this neighborhood ; and 
particularly the companions of W. In the even- 
ing there was a prayer meeting, in which the 
Lord manifested his most gracious presence. 
Christians prayed in faith ; and while they ask- 
ed, the blessing came. Lofty looks came down ; 
and hardened sinners were constrained to beg 
their prayers. At the close of the meeting, all 
who desired prayers w T ere requested to come 
forward, and kneel, and raise their desires with 
the people of God. The aisles were all filled, 
and I could see but two adults, who did not 
kneel. In this place, well may we exclaim, 
8 What hath God wrought !' Surely the Spirit 
of God was in the midst of us, and such prayers 
of faith will be answered. 

" 9. Conference. Twelve related the deal- 
ings of God with their souls, and were accepted 
as candidates for baptism. Among whom were 
my wife, and sister P. M. O how much reason 
I have to bless the Lord for his mercies in the 
salvation of precious souls. I tremble under a 
sense of my ingratitude. O Lord, humble me 
in thine own way ; and enable me lo view thy 
6 



54 MEMOIR OF 

hand in all thy dealings with me. Is it possible 
that a Christian can have so little feeling, that 
blessings nor afflictions should no more affect 
him ! Give me, O Lord, a realizing sense of my 
obligations to serve thee, and make the path of 
duty ever plain before me. The power of the 
Lord was manifested in the evening prayer 
meeting. 

" 10. Sabbath. Elder B. preached from 
Hebrews xii : 1,2. It is high time for me to 
lay aside every weight, and run the heavenly 
race ; but they are so many, and so great, that 
it seems most impossible for me to move ; and 
without the help of the Lord I shall not move 
one step. If I am not kept by the Holy Spirit, 
I shall run the downward course. After ser- 
mon, repaired to the water, where Elder B. 
administered the ordinance of baptism to ten 
willing converts. O that many more may be 
prepared to follow their Lord and Master in 
this solemn duty. 

" At five o'clock a meeting for exhortation 
and prayer. I felt an impression to lead in 
prayer at the opening of the meeting ; but I 
hesitated, and another, ' stepped in before me/ 
By waiting a little I lost the next opportunity, 
finally, the time was all filled up, and I held my 
peace, and my mind sunk in darkness and dis- 
tress ; yet believing I had a duty to do, all 
trembling as I was, I tried to speak, but was 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 55 

but very little refreshed. After the meeting 
was dismissed, a large numbers tarried near two 
hours. And the Spirit of the Lord was surely 
present with us. Such a spirit of prayer I think 
will be attended with a blessing ; and indeed a 
blessing was enjoyed. I did feel to rejoice with 
the people of God. And to think that I must 
leave them was deeply distressing. I felt pained 
for the situation of the unconverted. 

"11. Went to Eden. Rode with Mr F. 
He is truly engaged in the cause of his Lord 
and Master. When I compare his privileges 
with mine, and his improvement in the divine 
life, with my abilities, I feel justly condemned. 
How small I feel when with those whom the 
Lord hath taught ! But I am not suitably hum- 
ble. My proud heart still desires to be great 
in the sight of men. I sometimes fear that my 
heart was never humbled before God as it 
should be. That I never gave all up for Christ. 
O that God would teach me by his Holy Spirit. 

" 12. Commenced school in No. 8, Eden. 
Some of my scholars are very small ; but they 
all have precious souls. O that 1 may be ena- 
bled to discharge my duty to them faithfully, 
and in the fear of God. 

Precious youth — immortal souls, 
Your real worth cannot be told ; 
O come to Jesus, now's the time, 
Your worldly pleasures to resign. 



56 MEMOIR OF 



CHAPTER VIII. 

He's daily jealous o'er his heart, 
Lest from his God he should depart ; 
He searches deep — the cause he finds 
To be a worldly, selfish mind. 



EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL. 

" After I returned from school, I took up Mr. 
Whitefield's sermons, and read one on ' Repent 
and be converted that your sins may be blotted 
out,' he. I really took satisfaction in reading 
it. But whether it was a true relish for spiritual 
things, or whether my treacherous heart de- 
ceived me, I cannot tell. If 1 never have com- 
plied with the injunction there laid down, it is 
time that I attended to it. I am sorry for my 
sins ; but I fear sometimes I never truly repent- 
ed. I am converted from many evil practices, 
and that love to sin I once possessed ; but I 
fear I never had that true conversion in heart 
and soul, that is acceptable in the sight of God. 

" 15. In school, read ihe 1st chap, of Ro- 
mans. It appears to me I never had such a 
sense of my un worthiness, — such a wandering 
mind. Js it possible 1 have ever had any true 
discovery of the character of God. In prayer, 
my mind was shut up, so that I had no clear 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 57 

views of eternal things ; and ray thoughts were 
like the fools eyes, to the ends of the earth. I 
have great reason to fear that I was never born 
of the Spirit. I find the love of the world, my 
easily besetting sin. I have long mourned over 
my proud and selfish s disposition ; but till with- 
in a few days I had no idea that a little worldly 
gain was my idol. I verily doted on my be- 
nevolence, so blinded have I been to my own 
nature. 

" The Lord has prospered me in all my un- 
dertakings, and blessed me with remarkably 
good health ; and how little have I viewed his 
hand in all this. How easily now might he 
blast all my prospects. His justice would be 
tdear. My love of gain is the result of pride, 
w T hich I have ever known to possess the chief 
place in my heart. For months past, in every 
prayer, I have prayed the Lord to humble me. 
He has abundantly poured out his Holy Spirit 
:in the conversion of my companions both in 
Eden and Mount Desert. He has taken from 
me three beloved friends. But all this has not 
sufficiently humbled me. In praying for hu- 
mility, I was led to search for the idol that I 
should be unwilling to give up ; and I find in 
me an inordinate love of the world. 'How 
hardly shall they who trust in riches enter into 
the kingdom of heaven.' 

«* At times, I think I love God with my whole 
6* 



Ob MEMOIR OF 

soul ; but my heart is deceitful above all things, 
and desperately wicked. Yet I feel to hunger 
after righteousness from some motive or other. 
And now am I willing to sacrifice all my world- 
ly property, and a good name, and become a 
despised beggar, for the cross of Christ. I 
fear, I tremble. O Lord help me not only to 
see the vanity of all terrestrial things ; but to 
feel willing, if duty should call, to sacrifice them 
for thy sake. 

" 16. This evening attended a prayer meet- 
ing, a deep solemnity pervaded the assembly. 
I felt a calm peace of mind, but no particular 

j°y- 

" 18. Yesterday, Lord's day. At Mr. S. 
in the morning : went into the school house for 
my morning devotion. Found about me an 
evil nature, and a heart full of iniquity, trangres- 
sion and sin. Was called upon to pray in the 
family. Had some freedom. At ten o'clock, 
the ordinance of baptism was administered to 
five candidates ; two of them .were little boys 
10 and 11 years old. 

" In family prayers at Mrs. W , had 

some degree of freedom ; and in secret devo- 
tion I felt to be in the immediate presence of 
God. I felt calm and willing to trust my soul 
in his hands. My only distress was, that I 
realized no more the worth of the immortal 
soul. And can it be possible that any one, who 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 59 

has seen the situation of a sinner, while exposed 
to the wrath of an angry God, can be indiffer- 
ent to their immortal interest ? And surely if 
the Lord has smiled on me, and forgiven my 
sins, I ought to be alive to his cause, and let no 
terrestrial object prevent my doing his will. O 
Lord what am 1 ? Enlighten thou my mind 
more abundantly into the way of life and salva- 
tion. Give me such a sense of eternal realities, 
that no worldly object shall move me from the 
path of duty. 

" 19. Elder K preached in No. 4, 

Eden, from Luke xix : 6. I thought I took 
satisfaction under his preaching, and felt an im- 
pression to arise, and enlarge on two particu- 
lars, and apply it directly to the people in this 
place. Unto those that had been looking to see 
Jesus pass by this way ; but would not come 
down to receive him into their hearts. The 
other to the young converts, to consider what 
they were willing to sacrifice to the cause of 
God. And wherein they had wronged any one, 
either by example, neglect of duty to them, or 
in any other way, if they would restore four 
fold. Before 1 had opportunity to arise, another 
took up the same subject, and [ was satisfied to 
remain silent. 

u March 22. Expected to go to Mr. D. 
after school, but was disappointed. Hope all is 
for the best. I feel very anxious to get over to 



60 MEMOIR OF 

attend conference to morrow. I have a great 
desire to meet with the people of God, and 
hear them relate the dealings of God with their 
souls. 

"24. Lord's day. At the Centre, Elder 

B preached from i No man can come to 

me except the Father which hath sent me draw 
him.' The plan of salvation is perfect ; but 
unless God do something more, the sinner 
will reject the offers of mercy, and go down to 
eternal perdition. The only obstacle in the 
way, lies in the sinner's own will. That will 
must be subdued by the sovereign power of 
God. And a new direction given it by the 
Holy Spirit, or the sinner never will come to 
Christ ; and the very reason why they cannot, 
is because they will not. 

" I think the Spirit of God often strives w T ith 
the sinner, when he is little aware of it, and 
much more frequently than is believed by many 
Christians. Not that 1 believe it is always 
striving with them. Nor do I believe that it is- 
always the Spirit of the Lord that gives them 
distress of mind for having committed a sinful 
act. A person may be sorry for having done 
wrong from a great many motives. It may be 
on account of its injuring their person or pro- 
perty ; or that it subjects them to the reproof 
of their fellow men, or the civil law. And it 
may be from clear selfishness that they are 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 61 

sorry for having sinned against God, because it 
exposes them to eternal misery. And they 
may even desire to have religion from entirely 
selfish motives. So much we desire happiness 
and dread punishment. But whenever a per- 
son is sorry for sin, because it is displeasing to 
a holy God ; and when they desire to repent 
because God requires it ; and to love and serve 
him because He is good ; and that now is the only 
and accepted time ; I firmly believe that it arises 
from some source, higher than the corrupted 
heart, and that it is a special call from God. 

" In the afternoon, a Mr. Coates, a young 
man, preached from ' Except ye repent ye shall 
all likewise perish.' He showed first that all 
mankind were sinners, 2nd, what he understood 
by repentance ; 3d, the awful consequences of 
not repenting, and 4th the happy effects of true 
repentance. 

" My sister P. M. was baptised. My father 
has had the satisfaction of seeing two of his 
children follow the blessed Saviour in the ordi- 
nance of baptism. O that more of them might 
soon follow. I trust that two more have had 
their souls washed in the blood of the Lamb. 
O Lord wilt thou enable us all to obey all thy 
requirements. I have three brothers yet, if 
living, who I fear know not God, nor obey the 
gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. O Lord have 
mercy on their precious and undying souls ; 



62 MEMOIR OF 

and withhold not thy Holy Spirit from them ; 
but show them where they are, and give them 
true repentance, and faith in the Son of God. 

" After meeting, had some conversation with 
Mr. R., and Mr. S. What an alteration in 
these two men. Surely no one can dispute 
that this is the work of the Almighty. 

".An interesting prayer meeting at P. M. in 
the evening. The Lord has wrought wonders 
in this place. Many have been brought to the 
knowledge, and acknowledgment of the truth. 
And almost all have been led to cry out, 
' What must I do to be saved ?' But yet there 
remains precious souls, who have no hope that 
God for Christ's sake has forgiven their sins. 



CHAPTER IX. 

When God his Holy Spirit sends. 
How doth the trembling sinner bend, 
He cries alas ! ' What must J do, 
I'm sinking down to endless wo !' 

EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL. 

" 28. This evening Elder D. preached from 
'What must I do to be saved.' After sermon 
Dr. P. arose and related some of his exercises. 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEX, ESQ,. 63 

He said he never heard a sermon before, as he 
had this. He had ofien attended meeting; and 
listened to the sermon only to find some fault; 
but now he believed he had different motives. 
He thought he had a little hope that the Lord 
has forgiven his sins ; and spoken peace to his 
soul. And he could now say, 6 Glory to God' 
for what he had felt this evening. He begged 
the prayers of Christians that he might not rest 
on a false hope. If any thing was ever cause 
of gratitude, and received with rejoicing by the 
people of God, this circumstance was, to some 
individuals in particular. He had been a Uni- 
versalist, and rather opposed to the work of 
God in the place. Some of his neighbors who 
had lately experienced religion, w T hen they saw 
such an alteration in the Doctor, could hardly 
express their joy. 

" 29. Closed singing school in No. 3. It 
has been a very pleasant school. The scholars 
have all treated me with respect; ^and^they lay 
near my heart. For no class of people do I 
feel so deep an interest as for this little com- 
pany of singers. More than a half of them in- 
dulge a hope in the Saviour's blood applied to 
their souls. Several others once appeared to 
be deeply impressed with a sense of their situa- 
tion before God, but now they appear careless 
and unconcerned in too great a degree, about 
their immortal souls. O that they all may be 



64 MEMOIR 01* 

taught of God, and be kept by his Holy Spirit, 
in humble obedience to his will. And if we 
should never meet again in this world, may we 
be prepared by the grace of God, to meet in 
heaven ; and sing a new song to God and the 
Lamb forever and ever. 

"31. Arose early this morning, and went 
out for secret prayer. Took more satisfaction 
in the duty than I have for some time past. If 
ever I had the influence of the Spirit of God, I 
have had it in secret devotion. And were it 
not for what 1 experience in this duty, I should 
hardly dare to hope at all. I have thought 
sometimes I could say of a truth, that I held 
sweet communion with my Father in heaven. 
What reason I have to bless God for his mercies 
to me. O that I could fully realize my obliga- 
tion to serve him. I know that if I viewed 
things daily in the light of eternity, I should not 
be so absorbed in the things of this world. 

i( 3. Singing meeting in No. 4. In closing 
the meeting, I felt some embarrassment on ac- 
count of a person being present, who I viewed 
possessed superior talents and information. Now 
what folly it is. He is only a frail mortal ; 
and why should man look at man, when ap- 
proaching into the presence of the Almighty ? 

" 5. What strange feelings I have. To-day 
has been a miniature of the general state of my 
mind. Sometimes having some view of the 



SI3IE0N J. M1LLIKEN, ESQ,. 65 

greatness and majesty of God, and the depravi- 
ty of fallen man. At other times I feel to have 
some solemn sense of the love of God, through 
a Saviour, who came into this world to suffer, 
and die for us sinners, and now is ascended in- 
to heaven as an intercessor between us guilty 
rebels, and the justice of an offended Sovereign. 
These discoveries sometimes 611 me with won- 
der, love, and astonishment. But how soon do 
I lose all these feelings, and relapse into a state 
of cold indifference. O, is it possible that a 
person can once have a view of eternal things, 
and ever again be careless, or thoughtless on 
the subject, and set their affections on the vain 
things of this world ? 

" 9. My work is done in this place, (Eden.) 
When 1 think of leaving this people, probably 
never more to meet, till we meet at the bar of 
God, I am filled with the deepest emotions. 
Never was any people, except my own rela- 
tives, so dear to me as are the majority of these. 
I ever feel interested for my scholars of what- 
ever class ; and here are some of the best that 
I ever had, who have been to me six months, 
and treated me with kindness and respect. I 
now leave them with God. And if we never 
more meet in this world, may we be prepared 
to sing a new song in heaven. 

"]0. Went to P. M. Heard how abun- 
dantly the Lord had blessed this neighborhood. 
7 



86 MEMOIR OF 

Some of the most stout hearted sinners have 
been brought to the foot stool of sovereign 
mercy. 

" April 27, 1833. Conference at the Cen- 
tre. A good meeting. At the close, grand- 
father Wasgutt stated that on account of his age, 
he thought it his duty to resign the office of 
clerk of the church. The church proceeded to 
choose ; and the choice fell on me. O that I 
was capable of serving the church faithfully. 
But I am a poor ignorant sinner ; and frequent- 
ly sin against the little understanding I have. 
Notwithstanding my unworthiness, I felt it to be 
ray duty to accept. And if I can only be use- 
ful in the cause of God, I feel willing to bear 
the burden. 

" Commenced house keeping. I fear my 
affections are too much on the things of this 
world. O that the Lord would show me more 
and more the vanity of all worldly things, and 
the importance of a preparation for eternity. 
How important it is that we should live lives de- 
voted to the cause of God, and the welfare of 
precious souls, by instructing those about us, 
both by precept and example, in the way of true 
holiness. Being now placed at the head of a 
family, I felt it my duty to attend family wor- 
ship ; but I looked at the cross, and thought if 
once attempted, I must attend to it in all cir- 
cumstances, and before persons of different cha- 



SIMEON J. MILLJKEN, ES^. 67 

racters, and in times of darkness and trial. The 
cross appeared great, but I could see no way to 
get round it, the duty was so plain. I men- 
tioned some of my feelings to my companion, 
and she encouraged me. In my weakness what 
could I do, if my companion was an opposer to 
religion ? but I desire to bless God that through 
his grace, she is what she is. In the evening I 
felt such freedom, and took so much satisfac- 
tion, the duty being plain, I resolved that the 
face of clay should never prevent my attending 
to this known duty. O Lord, strengthen thou 
me, for I know I am a weak feeble creature ; 
and unless thou dost support me I shall fall. 

"October 25, 1834. Went on board the 
Schooner Compeer, A. L. Master, bound to 
Boston, or Salem. 

"27. This afternoon, ran over into Pleasant 
Point harbor, in the town of dishing. Went 
ashore, and visited the grave yard on Pleasant 
Point. We counted about 120 graves. 

"28. Calm. Passengers went ashore for 
exercise. I went up to a small hill that was 
near, to view the landscape round. Could see 
the towns Friendship, Waldoborough, and Bris- 
tol, on the west : St. George, and Thorn aston, 
on the east, besides other towns of which I did 
not learn the names. 

" 30. Left P. Point and arrived in Boston 
about 7 o'clock November 1. My health being 



68 MEMOIR OF 

feeble, I called to see Dr. Warrren : he was 
not at home. I then called to see Dr. Walker 
of Charlestown. He said I must not do any- 
work for three months. Eat no animal food, 
or any other food that was hearty, but lightly of 
pudding, porridge, flour bread, fruit and vegeta- 
bles, of different kinds. Drink as little as pos- 
sible; wear a warm flannel, keep my feet dry, 
&c. 

" November 2. Lord's day. Went to hear 
a converted Jew expound the Scriptures, prov- 
ing that Jesus is the Christ. After the close of 
his discourse, went to Dr. Fay's, heard a stran- 
ger preach, on the duty, of Christians reprov- 
ing, rebuking, and exhorting, one another for 
good. In the afternoon went to hear Rev. Mr. 
Jackson. Before meeting commenced, went 
into the Sabbath School, heard most of the les- 
son recited. Mr J.'s text was John xiv : 5, 6. 
He dwelt on the greatness and glory of Christ ; 
the happiness of those that trust in him ; and 
the wretchedness of those who reject him, both 
in this world and that to come. In the evening 
went again to hear Mr. J. He commenced a 
course of lectures. First, the fall of man. 

" 3. Unloading, packing goods, &c. very 
busy ; but almost continually annoyed, by rum 
drinking, cursing, and swearing. Astonishing 
that men, in this enlightened age, and some too, 
professing great refinement, should be lost to 



SIMEON J. M1LLIKEN, ESQ,. 69 

moral virtue, so depraved, so thoughtless of 
their final end. When will men learn to think 
of God as they ought. 

His journal here ends. I shall here insert a 
few extracts from a letter written to one of his 
particular friends soon after his return from 
Boston. 

" Mount Desert, January 24, 1835. 

I s Mr Emery, 

" Although length of time has passed 
without any correspondence between us, yet I 
have not forgotten you; and was happy to hear 
by Mr. H. that I had still a place in your re- 
membrance. In November, J 833, I moved to 
Seal Cove, (where I now reside,) and taught 
the district school ; and had the privilege of 
boarding myself. I also taught the Centre 
school, and at the same time, taught a singing 
school, in both houses. The schools were all 
agreeable. The singing school very interesting. 

" February 3. Since writing the above, I 
have been closely engaged in business when- 
ever I was able to write, which is only a few 
minutes at a time. During all the last summer, 
I felt unwell, but forbore to complain ; and 
continued to work very hard till about the mid- 
dle of September. When taking cold, my 
complaint, which was weakness in every part of 
7* 



70 MEMOIR OF 

my system, particularly in my stomach and 
lungs, attended by faintness, and violent pain in 
my side, confined me to the house. Dr. Hall 
of S , being in the neighborhood, was call- 
ed in to see me. I soon after revived, so as to 
be able to go to Charlestown, Mass. when I ap- 
plied to Dr. Walker. After I returned, I 
applied to Dr. H. again ; and then gave myself 
into the hands of Dr. Kittredge. They all 
were of one opinion, as it respects my com- 
plaint, that it is a sprain on the midriff; and ir- 
ritated by hard labor and singing, which have 
caused it to spread to other parts of the vitals. 
My health is so, that I can now walk about, go 
out doors when the weather is clear. Set up 
all day except sometimes after exercise, I lay 
down to rest a feeble body. A very hard cough 
oppresses me, and owing to the weakness of my 
stomach, I cannot supply nature with the neces- 
sary quantity of food. 

" With regard to the state of my mind, it is 
measurably affected with my body. Happy 
would it be for me if my present affliction should 
lead me to the great Disposer of all events, 
realizing his justice and mercy. Then might I 
say, it is good for me to be afflicted. But O it 
seems as if I should never again get a glimpse 
of the glory of God as a Judge or Saviour. 

" S. J. Milliken." 

(I cannot sing any at all.) 



SIMEON J. M1LLIKEX, E5Q. 71 



CHAPTER X. 



A SHORT SKETCH OF HIS LAST SICKNESS AND DEATH. 

When lingering sickness him confin'd, 
His soul he calmly did resign 
Into the hands of Christ his God, 
And bow'd beneath his chastening rod. 

After his return from Boston, he still grew 
worse. His medicine that he obtained there, 
did not have any favorable effect. Application 
was made to several physicians in the vicinity ; 
and such was the anxiety of his friends, especial- 
ly his kind father, to save him from a prema- 
ture death, that physicians were applied to at 
some distance for advice. But he still grew 
weaker and weaker ; and it soon appeared evi- 
dent that he had a seated consumption. In the 
first part of his sickness he seemed to have an 
impression he should recover ; and expressed a 
desire to live that he might be useful, not only 
to his particular friends, but to society in gene- 
ral. He continued to pray in his little family, 
until he was so weak that he could say but a 
few words. 

He was ardently attached to his fond wife 
and darling babe ; and it cost him some severe 



72 MEMOIR OF 

struggles before he felt perfectly resigned to the 
will of God, and was enabled to give them with 
his other dear friends up to Him, and say, not 
my will but thine, O God, be done. He re- 
marked to a friend that he had thought he had 
something more to do on earth ; but if his work 
was done, he was willing to depart and be with 
Christ, which was far better. 

A short time before his death, he said, " Mo- 
ther, what do you think of my sickness ? Do 
you think I shall ever recover ?" She observed, 
she had hoped until her fears had got beyond 
her hope. "Well, said he, how do you feel 
about it." She then remarked, that when she 
felt nothing but nature, she was ready to snatch 
him from sickness and death. O, said he, 
" that is wrong, that's wrong." She observed 
she knew it was wrong ; and on mature de- 
liberation she thought if he should live thirty or 
forty years in the world, and not be useful in 
society, and among his fellow creatures, he had 
better go now. He replied, "O yes," "bet- 
ter go now, better go now." 

He exhorted the young people who visited 
him to " repent of their sins and turn to God ; 
and not w 7 ait for a reformation." His brother- 
in-law called to see him. He said to him, 
" now you have taken a new vessel, don't allow 
any swearing or drinking on board." His 
brother then observed, he had one man that was 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 73 

profane. Tell him, said he, from me, " to pre- 
pare for death ; and remember how easy it 
would be for God to stop his breath, and cut 
short his days on earth in the midst of his pro- 
fanity." He commended his beloved companion 
to God ; and spoke frequently to her on the 
importance of training up their little girl in the 
fear of God, and the manner in which he 
thought it all important she should govern her. 
He wished her to be taught in a particular man- 
ner the holy word of God ; and observed he 
had often prayed for her, and had an impres- 
sion that she would become pious in early life. 

He appeared to have a deep concern for the 
welfare of the church of which he w T as a mem- 
ber ; and said to a friend who visited him, 
M Charge the church to be faithful in discipline." 
He appeared remarkably patient during his 
long, distressing sickness. On one occasion he 
said to his wife, " How long shall I remain in 
such distress." She observed, he must be re- 
conciled to God. " Reconciled to God ! I'll 
try and be reconciled to God." And then bore 
his distress in humble submission to his holy 
will. He observed one day to his wife, proba- 
bly a little wandering, " Catharine, I have seen 
another Roman Catholic, or he might be a deist, 
standing by my bed." And what did he say to 
you? He asked me "what I thought of the 
bible now." And what did you tell him ? I 



74 



MEMOIR OF 



told him, " it was the eternal word of God, by 
which he and 1 must be judged." 

During the last week of his life, when his 
father was about to leave him, he was much 
affected ; but remarked to him he hoped he 
would be comforted, and compose his mind; 
then turning to his mother, expressed a hope 
that she would remain composed to the end. 
His mother said, " This world's a dream, an 
empty show." He added, "But the bright 
world to which I go, 

Hath joys substantial and sincere ; 
When shall I wake and find me there ?" 

After a severe struggle, he exclaimed, "is this 
death ! Where is my hope ? In God." And 
for a few moments appeared in great darkness, 
when his hope revived. He appeared calm and 
composed ; and spoke of the love of Jesus. 
His mother observed, she hoped he had a friend 
better than earthly friends. " O yes, I have an 
Almighty friend." 

The morning on which he died, he appeared 
calm and composed, and remarked to his weep- 
ing friends, "I am surrounded by my earthly 
friends and aged parents ; and my soul filled 
with the love of God." " Precious in the sight 
of the Lord is the death of his saints," was the 
theme dwelt upon at the funeral services; and 
then his mortal remains were committed to their 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEX, ESQ,. 75 

long home, amidst the lamentations of his be- 
loved friends and numerous acquaintance. 

I shall here add a few verses composed by 
his afflicted father soon after his death. 

Now fare ye well, ye blooming youth, 
Whom I so ofl have taught the truth ; 
I fain on earth would longer stay, 
To tell you of a judgment day. 

'Tis not God's will it should be so, 
My Jesus calls and I must go ; 
His voice I cannot disobey, 
I'm called from earth far hence away. 

Parents and friends be not so sad, 
My soul will soon ascend to God ; 
My bones with dust they must be laid, 
Till Christ the Lord shall raise the dead. 



CHAPTER XI. 



INTERESTING TRAITS IN HIS CHARACTER. 

Benevolence reigned in his heart, 
And in its cause he took his part; 
To do men good, he seemed to aim, 
The temperance cause did help sustain. 

When quite young, he appeared to have a 
studious mind, and a thirst for information. His 
opportunities at this time, were very limited in 



76 MEMOIR OF 

attending school ; but he made considerable im- 
provement at home. He had not the privileges 
in youth that many enjoy. His father, at this 
time, not being in very flourishing circumstan- 
ces, could not afford to keep him constantly at 
school. He only enjoyed the privilege of a 
school about two months in a year, excepting a 
few months at the Academy in Blue Hill, from 
the time that he was twelve years old, until he 
was twenty one. He then attended the Aca- 
demy again a short term of time ; and pursued 
his studies until he was well qualified to teach 
a school. 

He was remarkably sober and temperate 
from a child ; and was never known to use any 
profane language ; and ever treated his supe- 
riors with reverence and respect. He was very 
obedient to his parents from his childhood, and 
performed his duty towards them with filial 
reverence and attention. He would ever con- 
sult them in all his movements, and w T orldly 
affairs, as well as on things relating to eternity, 
especially after he became of age. He appear- 
ed to have an unusual attachment to his parents, 
and ever manifested unshaken confidence in 
their judgment. His father was almost his con- 
stant companion ; and when young he labored 
with him from day to day, excepting the little 
time he spent in school ; and was constantly 
asking questions for information. His father 



SIMEON J. M1LLIKEN, ESQ,. 77 

ever indulged him with a suitable familiarity 
which tended to increase his confidence in his 
judgment; and he would frequently ask his 
father to explain certain passages of scripture to 
him, when they were alone, engaged in their 
daily labor. He appeared to have some under- 
standing of the scriptures when quite young. 

He had an unusual antipathy against ardent 
spirits from a child, and when young, he enter- 
ed into the subject with decision of mind. He 
was one of the principal agents in getting up a 
Temperance Society in Mount Desert. And 
at its organization was chosen Secretary, which 
office he filled with becoming zeal and perse- 
verence, until about a year before he died. 
There was no one in the society perhaps, that 
did more to sustain the cause than he, either by 
time or money. His expenses were considera- 
ble in paying postages, and in printing for the 
benefit of the society. But such was the in* 
terest he felt in the society, that he was willing, 
not only to give his time, but property, to ad- 
vance so good a cause. He used considerable 
exertion to keep the society alive ; and on their 
being disappointed at an annual meeting of a 
person to deliver an address, he, with a very 
short notice, prepared one for the occasion. 

He appeared to take a decided interest in all 
the benevolent operations of the present day. 
The Foreign Mission seemed to lay near his 



78 MEMOIR OF 

heart. And when this society was organized, 
he was also chosen Secretary, and was actively 
engaged in promoting its interest. But the 
Sabbath School cause he entered into, with all 
his might, and was ardently engaged in pro- 
moting its interest while he had strength. He 
faithfully discharged the duties of Secretary of 
this society until within a year of his death. 
He had a peculiar faculty in instructing youth, 
and of obtaining their esteem and affection. In 
the district where he died, he had taught the 
town school six years, and commenced the 
seventh when taken sick. It appeared to be his 
delight to instruct and rear the tender mind. He 
seldom was known to sit down in the Sabbath 
School after it was opened. While others were 
sitting klle, as though there was nothing to be 
done or said to the youth — he would be seen 
bending over the seats, deeply engaged in con- 
versing with the scholars, on the importance of 
remembering their Creator in the days of their 
youth, and turning to God, while it was an ac- 
cepted time, and day of salvation. He seemed 
to realize the importance of improving the pre- 
sent time, in imparting instruction to precious 
youth. 

He not only took a deep interest in the 
schools in Mount Desert, but in Eden. Here 
the youth and children were very dear to him. 
He had long endeavored to give them suitable 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ. 79 

instruction both by precept and example; and 
they were affectionately "attached to him. He 
appeared to have a deep anxiety that the Sab- 
bath School might here flourish, and be cordial- 
ly supported, by the parents of the children. 
He was the principal agent in establishing a 
Bible Class among the young people in Mount 
Desert. His father, a few years since, observed 
to him, he had thoughts of writing to a certain 
minister to come and labor with them in the 
gospel, as they were then destitute of a preach- 
er. He objected. His father wished for his 
reasons. Why said he, " He takes no interest 
in the Temperance or Sabbath School cause, 
and we do not want such a preacher among us." 
His father saw the propriety of his remarks, and 
the object was immediately given up. After 

Mr. C came to reside with them, and he 

found he was a cordial friend to Sabbath Schools, 
he could hardly express his feelings of gratitude 
for the help he anticipated from him, in in- 
structing the rising generation. Yet, on his 
dying bed he was led to exclaim, " How much 
more I might have done in the cause of Sabbath 
Schools ! 1 have been an unprofitable servant !" 
He was a real friend to his fellow men, and 
ever willing to lend a helping hand for the ad- 
vancement of any society which seemed to 
promise good. It might truly be said of him, 
he was ready to every good word and work* 



80 



MExMOIR OF 



He generally attended, in company with his 
father, the anniversaries of societies, and es- 
pecially the Association. The writer of this 
well remembers, a few years since, of seeing 
him to a number of these meetings, and no- 
ticing (on account of his youth) with peculiar 
delight, the interest he then manifested in the 
cause of Zion. When the ministers and mes- 
sengers were gathering together, to devise, or 
sustain some benevolent operation, he would be 
seen, standing near, with his blooming counte- 
nance, gazing on them, all ready to take hold, 
and lend, if necessary, a helping hand. I have 
admired his interestedness on such occasions ; 
and wished that there were many more young 
men that would go and do likewise. But O 
how unsearchable are the judgments of God, 
and his ways past finding out ! that in the midst 
of his usefulness, he should be cut down, while 
others, that take no interest in the cause of be- 
nevolence, are permitted to live ! But shall not 
the Judge of all the earth do right ? He cer- 
tainly will, and has, in this instance, although to 
us, short sighted mortals, it is a mysterious 
providence ; and has appeared so in a special 
manner to the writer, while pouring over his 
manuscripts, and reflecting how often within a 
few years, she has been brought very low by 
sickness, and life at times almost despaired of; 
while he was blooming with health and activity, 



SIMEON J. MILLIKEN, ESQ,. 81 

and doing good in society, that he should be 
taken from his sphere of labor and usefulness, 
and an unprofitable servant be spared to muse 
over, and select from his writings, from day to 
day, while the hand that wrote it is mouldering 
in the dust, and his immortal spirit surrounding 
the throne of God, and ascribing glory, and 
honor, to Him, that sitteth upon the throne, and 
the Lamb forever and ever. 

How^ affecting now T is the reflection, that all 
his solemn admonitions, and fervent prayers, 
for the youth and children, if treated with ne- 
glect, and they left to die in their sins, will rise 
in judgment against them ! Then how impor- 
tant, that they should now T consider they possess 
immortal undying souls that must exist, when 
time shall be no more, either in eternal blessed- 
ness, or eternal wo, where the worm dieth not, 
and the fire is not quenched. The time is not 
far distant, when they must stand before the 
Judge of quick and dead ; and while arraigned 
at his awful tribunal, answer for the deeds, done 
in the body, not only for every idle word, and 
the most secret deeds of darkness, but for every 
privilege of hearing the gospel, for all their 
Sabbath School instruction, as well as private 
admonition ! O my young friends, how will you 
stand the solemn test? Flee then to Jesus; 
escape for your life ; tarry not in all the plain ; 
but immediately surrender yourselves into the 
8* 



82 SKETCH OF 

hands of the Lord Jesus, the Great Advocate 
between a just and holy God, and poor sinners, 
whose blood cleanseth from all sin. Give up 
your cause to Him to plead now while it is an 
" accepted time, and a day of salvation." He 
wilt now plead your cause, and so intercede for 
you with the Father, that your soul shall be 
presented unspotted before the throne of God 
and the Lamb. 



CHAPTER XII. 

A SKETCH OF THE LIFE AND DEATH OF MELTIAH 
JORDAN MILLIKEN. WRITTEN BY HIS FOND FA- 
THER, A FEW WEEKS AFTER HIS SUDDEN DEATH. 

His youthful days were mark'd with traits 

Of strict regard to truth, 
Obedience to his parents dear, 

How amiable in youth ! 

Meltiah Jordan Milliken, was born Jan. 
5th, 1807. When a child, although he spoke 
plainly and distinctly, he spoke but seldom. 
He never spoke, seemingly, through his whole 
life, but when it was necessary. He did not 
laugh, as children frequently do, but merely 



MELT1AH J. MILLIKEN. 83 

smiled. He never was known in his childhood 
to tell wrong stories as many children do ; but 
through his whole 'life seemed to have a special 
regard to truth. If Jordan said it was so, we 
hesitated not, but took it for granted, and made 
no further inquiries. 

When in his 5th year, an aunt of his, stepped 
to the window, on the first day of April, and 
exclaimed, " what vessel is this Jordan ?" He 
hasted to gaze, but with silence returned. His 
aunt seeing his disapprobation of her conduct, 
said, " Jordan, you may make a fool of whom 
you please, on the first day of April." He re- 
plied, "I shall not tell a lie to make a fool of 
any body." He attended school very young, 
but was never corrected in school during his 
life, nor known to contend with any one. 

As he grew up, he was remarkably faithful 
in whatever business he engaged in. And it 
was sufficient chastisement to tell him that he 
was wrong, or in a fault ; he would never make 
any reply, but with the greatest prudence and 
reverence. In early life, he discovered a 
genius for music, both vocal and instrumental, 
and made considerable improvement in sacred 
music before he died. 

In 1825, there, was a Sabbath School or- 
ganized in this place, of which he was appoint- 
ed a teacher. He attended to his duty with 
prudence and perseverance. Last April we 



84 SKETCH OF 

formed a Sabbath School Society auxiliary to 
, embracing five schools. He was ap- 
pointed first teacher. He appeared to take a 
great interest in these schools ; and at the an- 
nual meeting was chosen Treasurer. 

He was remarkable for his kindness and good 
will to the dumb beasts, and never would abuse 
them, and would sometimes complain to. me 
that his younger brothers used them too hard. 
He was daily with me, when not at school, ex- 
cepting a tour to New York last summer ; and 
I frequently thought he conducted with great 
propriety for a young person, and observed to 
his younger brothers and sisters, that they must 
take Jordan for a pattern, and they would do 
right. 

He was remarkable for his attention to family 
worship, and was very constant at meeting ; if 
his companions left the meeting, he would not, 
until it was closed. He never used idle, or by- 
words, during his life. His conduct and prac- 
tice seemed to say, he felt the force of those 
passages of God's word, " Swear not at all ; 
and for every idle word, men shall give an ac- 
count at the day of judgment." He was in 
this respect, a daily example and reproof to me. 

He was remarkably attached to home. It 
was rare that his young companions could per- 
suade him to go abroad. Last winter, he taught 
a school in an adjoining district : he would come 



MELTIAH J. MILLIKEN. 85 

home as often as every other night, and we 
were always glad to see Jordan come home. A 
few days before his death, a friend of mine ob- 
served to me, he thought I was doing more for 
my children than I was able to do. I said to 
him, Jordan has been a faithful son to me, and 
I must do something to help him forward, that 
he may be useful in society. And I often view- 
ed him stepping forth in society in his humble 
sphere, exerting a lasting and good influence on 
the rising generation. But alas ! my expecta- 
tions are all blighted ; he is taken from the evil 
to come. The Lord no doubt had a special 
purpose in taking my son. 

The week previous to his death, he was, a 
part of the time, attending with me, a saw- 
mill, about half a mile from the house. The 
last night, about JO o'clock, I observed him to 
be shivering with the cold. It went to my 
heart. We left the mill about 11 o'clock, 
took some refreshment, read and prayed, and 
retired about 12. The next morning, I arose 
about the dawning of the day, went up stairs, 
expecting to find Jordan sick. I asked him 
how he did ; he observed he was well, and im- 
mediately arose. He went* to his work as 
usual. In the afternoon, he observed to his 
brother, he had a pain in his stomach, and must 
go home. He had a half a mile to travel. 
When he came in, he looked sick. I said, " Jor- 



86 



SKETCH OF 



dan, are you sick?" He replied, " I am, I have 
a pain in my stomach and bowels." His mother 
prepared a bed for him by the fire, and gave 
him medicine immediately ; but the most pow- 
erful medicine had no effect upon him. He 
soon began to puke, and was in great distress. 
He could not lay on his bed but a few minutes 
before he wanted to stand on his feet, then sit 
in a chair, and then on the bed, and so con- 
tinued till he expired. 

At 9 o'clock, I prayed in the family. At 
12, the family retired to rest, except his mother 
and myself. We were in hopes, every moment, 
he would be better ; but our hopes were soon 
blasted by appearances of mortification in his 
bowels. At two he become very thirsty, and 
drank, and puked continually. We called up 
the family. His brother went immediately for 
a doctor, six miles. I was almost distracted 
for want of sleep, and retired to get a few mo- 
ment's rest. 

He soon observed to his mother, "I wish 
father was here." I sprang in, and said, " Jor- 
dan, are you worse?" He said, "yes; his 
bowels began to swell ; and he thought he was 
not long for this world ;" and wished me to 
pray with him. I told him, I had tried to pray 
for him, but he must pray for himself. You 
know, said I, that I have prayed for dying peo- 
ple, that they might have a spirit of prayer 



MELTIAH J. MILLIKEN. 87 

themselves. He instantly exclaimed, " Lord 
have mercy on me, forgive my sins, and give 
me a spirit of prayer." I asked Mr. P. who 
was present, to steady him in his chair, and I 
kneeled down by his side, and prayed. As 
soon as I closed, he commenced, " Lord have 
mercy on me. In thee only do I hope." I 
said, " Jordan, must I part with you ?" He 
then said, "I must bid you farewell. I hope 
to see you in heaven again." I observed to 
him, you know how tenderly I have loved you. 
He replied, " You have been a kind father to 
me." I then remarked to him, he had been an 
obedient son ; but replied he, " I have sinned 
against God." 

I then exhorted him to hope in his mercy, 
for he was a sin pardoning God, and Jesus 
Christ a compassionate Saviour. " But said 
he, I have neglected him too long." I begged 
of him to hope in his mercy ; and by this time 
my soul was almost rent asunder. I was now 
holding his legs in my lap, as he could sit easiest 
in this way. I found it easy to pray aloud in this 
position, and continued to feel an unusual spirit 
of prayer for his immortal soul, and a nearness 
to Jehovah, until I felt, and exclaimed, I be- 
lieved the Lord would have mercy on my son. 
I was exhausted, sunk down in my chair in 
silence. He immediately commenced praying, 
and continued every few minutes, until he ex- 
pired. 



88 SKETCH OF 

He called his sister P. 14 years old, and re- 
quested her to attend to religion then, and not 
to put it off, until a dying hour. He then ob- 
served, he wanted to see S. (his eldest brother) 
but she must tell him not to put far away the 
day of wrath. 

The doctor came about the dawning of the 
day. Jordan said, he could do him no good, 
only pray for him. His brother Simeon came 
in a few moments after. Their meeting was 
heart rending. The room was now full, and 
almost rang with groans and lamentations. I 
asked Jordan if it did not disturb him ; he 
calmly replied, no. I asked him if he felt any 
more comfortable in his mind ; he said he did 
not; but instantly prayed, " Lord forgive my 
sins on earth, that I may see thy face in peace ; 
for in thee only do I hope." He was asked if 
he wished some one to pray with him, he an- 
swered, yes. His physician prayed for him, 
while I fed him with water, for he appeared to 
have the thirst of death. I remarked to him, 
that God's Son, when suffering death for our 
sins, had nothing but vinegar and gall to drink ; 
but mine could have water. 

In moving him, I found by 12 o'clock, his 
flesh grew stiff with death. He was now in 
such distress he could not lay down at all ; and 
when we sat him in his chair for the last time, 
he prayed, " Lord have mercy on me, for 



MELT1AH J. MILLIKEN. 89 

Jesus sake, and forgive my sins ; in thee only 
do I hope." He then bid us all farewell, and 
said he hoped he should see us all in heaven ; 
he was just a going, and prayed the Lord to 
receive him into his kingdom. He was asked 
if he was willing to die ; he now calmlv answer- 
ed, " O yes." 

His youngest sister about 1 1 years old crowd- 
ed in, to see him, and in the the anguish of her 
mind exclaimed, " Can't Jordan open his eyes ! 
can't Jordan open his eyes !" He opened his 
eyes, and pleasantly looked her in the face, when 
she again exclaimed, " Jordan, where are you 
going ? where are you going ?" He calmly an- 
swered, "I hope to heaven." Soon after he 
looked up to me and said, " I hope I shall ap- 
pear on the right hand ;" and died without a 
struggle or a groan, at half past 2 o'clock, the 
24th day of November, 1827, aged about 20 
years ; in 23 hours after he was taken sick. 



90 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 

lines composed on the death of meltiah jor- 
dan milliken, who died at mount desert, 
November 24th, 1827. 

Our prospects here may blossom bright, 

And pleasure seem to dawn ; 
Before to-morrow's dawning light, 

It all may be withdrawn. 

Here we may see a pleasant youth, 

He buds and blossoms bright ; 
And while we're looking forth for fruit, 

God does this blossom blight. 

So this young man of whom I write, 

A well beloved son, 
Who by a kind and gentle life, 

Had much affection won. 

His youthful days were mark'd with traits, 

Of strict regard to truth, 
Obedience to his parents dear, 

How amiable in youth I 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 91 

His usefulness began to dawn, 

Among his younger friends ; 
A teacher in their Sabbath School, 

They loved him to the end. 

His kind and sympathetic ways, 

Endear'd him to his friends, 
But God, his sovereign will displays, 

And the grim message sends. 

It seized upon its youthful prey, 

And rack'd him keen with pain ; 
The father wrung with agonies, 

Seem'd but to pray in vain. 

He begs his father now to pray 

For his immortal soul ; 
For he'd but little time to stay, 

In this polluted world. 

He kneels again, down by his side, 

With hearts and voices one ; 
To heaven they rais'd renewed cries, 

For this beloved son. 

The father's mind distress'd — he ceas'd, 

The son aloud then spoke — 
" Have mercy Lord, O Lord, on me, 

In thee I only hope!" 



92 ORIGINAL POETRY. 

The father to the son then said, — 

" Must I now part with you 
Whom I so tenderly have lov'd, 

So kind, obedient, too ?" 

" A father kind to me you've been," 

The son to him replied ; 
" But I have sinn'd against my God, 

Neglected him beside." 

" Hope in his mercy, then my son, 

He is a pardoning God ; 
And Jesus Christ a Saviour kind, 

Who spilt his precious blood." 

The father now access had gained, 

Unto the mercy seat ; 
He plead with God till strength had fail'd, 

And sunk down at his feet. 

When he had ceased, the son commenced, 

And prayed to God alone : 
The father felt their prayers were heard, 

And mercy would be shown. 

The room now rung with groans and cries, 
From friends that had conven'd ; 

A much lov'd brother had arriv'd, 
Heart rending was the scene* 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 93 

His mind was yet in deep distress 

Amid the groans he spoke, — 
" O Lord forgive my sins on earth, 

In Thee I only hope." 

The thirst of death had seiz'd this youth, 

All hopes of life had fled ; 
His kind physician bow'd and pray'd, 

While him the father fed. * 

" Water, my son may have to drink," 

The father to him cried ; 
" But God's own Son, must drink the gall, 

When he on Calvary died." 

His body now was rack'd with pain, 

He now in anguish spoke, 
"Have mercy Lord for Jesus' sake, 

In Thee I only hope." 

He now appeared resigned to death, 

And bid his friends farewell ; 
He prayed the Lord his soul to take, 

That he in heaven might dwell. 

Amid the last now closing scene, 

With groans and ceaseless cries, 
His little sister crowded in, — 

" Can't Jordan open eyes ?" 
9* 



94 ORIGINAL POETRY. 

He calmly rais'd his eyes again, 

Gave her a pleasant look ; 
The child with sorrow now was fill'd, 

Her heart seem'd nearly broke. 

Now fill'd with grief she raised her voice 

And twice the inquiry made, 
" Where are you going Jordan ? Where ?" 

" To heaven I hope," he said. 

Again he calmly rais'd his eyes, 

And to his father said ; 
" I hope to appear on the right hand," 

And then his spirit fled. 

A solemn moment sure was this, 

To the surviving friends, 
The father, and the mother dear, 

It did their hearts most rend. 

May God to them much grace impart, 
And heal their wounded breast; 

And when they end this mortal life, 
In Jesus may they rest. 

And when the dead in Christ shall rise, 

And in his presence stand ; 
May they with Jordan too be found, 

On Christ the Judge's right hand. 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 95 

His brothers and his sisters dear, 

With whom he lived in love ; 
Prepare to meet your brother now, 

In realms of bliss above. 

You heard him raise his warning voice, 

With his last dying breath, 
" Put not away the day of wrath," 

To you his last request. 

Now while your hearts are fill'd with grief, 

May you your sins confess ; 
Wash in a Saviour's precious blood 

And seek his righteousness. 

This warning now I pray don't slight, 

And still go on in sin ; 
When Jesus to your souls invite, 

To turn and live to him. 

R. P. P. 



96 SKETCH OF 



CHAPTER XIII. 

How many snares for youth are laid, 
Books of genius — novels made ; 
To draw the young and giddy youth, 
Away from more substantial truth. 

SKETCH OF WILLIAM MILLIKEN. 

William Milliken died at Mount Desert, 
March 5th, 1833, aged 21. When young, his 
mind was seriously impressed at times ; and 
his parents were encouraged to hope that he 
would early be brought to the knowledge of the 
truth. During a revival just before he went to 
sea, he arose in meeting, and requested the 
people of God to pray for his precious soul. 
But after leaving his father's house, and mixing 
with light and vain company, being exposed to 
temptation as many young men are, who follow 
the sea, his serious impressions gradually wore 
off, and he became light and vain, like many of 
his companians. 

He remarked to his mother, a short time be- 
fore he died, that the reading of novels, he be- 
lieved, was the first cause of wearing away his 
serious impressions ; that he had quite a num- 
ber of his own, and wished her to see that they 



WILLIAM MILLIKEN. 97 

were burnt, that they might not injure any other 
young persons. His sickness was very distress- 
ing ; and he appeared at first much affected 
with the goodness of God, in permitting him to 
come home, where he could have the attention 
of his kind mother, who nursed him with the 
most tender solicitude during his sickness. And 
when his mind became anxious, she directed 
him to the Lamb of God, who taketh away the 
sin of the world. He appeared now sensible 
of his lost and undone situation, without faith 
in the Lord Jesus Christ ; and lamented that 
he had so much neglected reading his bible. 

A short time before he died, his father ob- 
served to him, " William, you are drawing near 
the grave." He replied, " and I have got no 
religion," and appeared in great distress of 
mind. Prayer was now offered almost con- 
tinually that God would be gracious to his pre- 
cious soul. A few days before he died, he 
exclaimed, " Mother, my burden is gone ! 
Christians have taken it away, or the Lord." 
His mother observed to him that her burden 
was gone too. He now appeared calm and 
composed, and asked her to read the 5th chap, 
of the 2d of Cor. She asked him why he 
wished this chapter to be read. He observed, 
because he knew he must soon put off this 
tabernacle of clay. A short time before he 
died, the family, by his request, were called 



98 WILLIAM M1LLIKEN. 

around his (tying bed. His mother left the 
room. He then said, " Father, go out and 
comfort mother ; tell her I have a good hope." 
He appeared perfectly reconciled to the will 
of God, but lamented much the manner he 
had spent his time, and that reading novels 
was one great cause of his neglecting to read 
the word of God. His brother S. observed to 
him just before he died, he could not live long. 
He said, " No, I shall soon be with Jesus." 




99 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 

LINES COMPOSED ON THE DEATH OF SEVERAL YOUNG 
PERSONS, WHO BID FAIR TO BE USEFUL IN SOCIETY. 

Another blooming youth is gone, 

We heard the solemn sound ; 
Arrows of death, how thick they fly, 

And cut our glory down. 

A few months since we saw him here, 

His prospects dawning bright, 
In study oft did persevere, 

In knowledge took delight. 

He promised fair his friends to cheer 

The guardians of his youth, 
In their declining latter years, 

And had embraced the truth. 

But God, the great, the sovereign Judge, 

Sees fit to blast their plan, 
The mystery of his providence, 

Who of us here can scan ? 



100 ORIGINAL POETRtf. 

Now far away from youthful scenes, 
And these much loved friends, 

A cloud of darkness intervenes, 
And God a summons sends. 

His sufferings now no tongue can tell, 

Distressing was his pain, 
His anguish indescribable, 

Yet he did not complain. 

Grateful and kind to all around, 

For favors he received, 
Strangers his friends he quickly found, 

In this his time of need. 

Cheerful he bore the chastening rod, 

Nor did he ere repine, 
But calmly to the hands of God. 

His soul he did resign. 

At first he cherished the fond hope, 

Of being raised again, 
And yet be useful to those friends, 

Whose hearts he knew were pained. 

But when informed that he must go. 
And death was drawing nigh, 

He cheerfully, now bow'd to God ; 
Appeared resigned to die. 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 101 

His soul now freed from sin and death, 

We hope triumphant reigns, 
And will with Jesus ever rest, 

In those celestial plains.* 

Be also ready, blooming youth, 

To you God calls again ; 
How many of your fellow mates, 

In the cold grave are lain. 

How many pleasing youth were seen,— 

In this your native town, 
Just stepping forth in active life, 

And death would cut them down. 

They rose like some fair blossoms here, 

Appeared fresh and bright, 
Some sought to move in useful spheres, 

In science took delight. 

Some had a hope in God through grace, 

Believed in Jesus Christ, 
While others gave no evidence, 

Of newness here of life. 

But they are gone, forever gone, 

No earthly arm could save ; 
Their bodies once so doated on, 
Are mouldering in the grave, 

* George Stevens, Jr. of Blue Hill, who died in Andover, Mass. 
aged 24. 

10 



102 ORIGINAL POETRY. 

Now how can you these warnings slight, 

Put all these scenes away, 
And still go on in youthful mirth, 

Appearing light and gay ? 

When the next arrow God may send, 
May reach your vital breath, 

Then you must quick give up your mirth, 
And bow yourself to death. 

Put not away the day of grace, 

But speedily attend ; 
Lest sudden vengeance seize your breath, 

And all your prospects rend. 

When God's own arm is lifted up, 
No human power can save ; 

No one his brother can redeem, 
Or ransom from the grave. 

Alas ! young friends, God calls again, 

Before I close these lines ; 
Although he pleased to pass you by, 

Another is enshrined. 

O yes ! enshrined and now is laid, 
Beneath the swelling wave ; 

No human power could him redeem, 
No mortal arm could save. 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 103 

Like others he has bloom' d awhile, 

Was stepping forth in life ; 
But ah ! upon the mighty deep, 

He vanished out of sight. 

Here he will rest beneath the flood 

His lowly watery bed, 
Till the last trump shall shake the earth, 

And sea give up her dead. 

Could he have rais'd his dying voice, 

And pierced your glowing heart, 
How would he warned you to prepare, 

With earthly bliss to part ! # 

Ah ! God may strike another blow, 

If you do not attend, 
And lay your expectations low, 

Or some more dearer friend. 

God will not always call in vain, 

Nor warn us to prepare ; 
And if we slight his offered grace, 

His vengeance we must share. 

May he console surviving friends, 

And heal the wounded heart ; 
By grace prepare their souls to dwell, 

Where kindred never part. 

R. P. P. 

* Otis Witham, who died at sea, aged 23. 



104 ORIGINAL POETRY, 



WRITTEN ON THE DEATH OF ELIZA F , AGED 15, 

How soon was Eliza call'd away, 
Her spirit left its house of clay, 

Her soul arose to God — 
Her sufferings now we trust are o'er, 
Against her God she sins no more, 

Nor feels his chastening rod. 

For months before her spirit fled, 
She was confined to a sick bed, 

And exercised with pain : 
While all her mates were well around, 
No comfort here Eliza found, 

But she did not complain. 

When free from pain she went alone ; 
No doubt her sins she did bemoan, 

And pray for heavenly love. 
She writes, " my Jesus 1 would see, 
From this vain world delivered be % 

And reign with him above." 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 105 

When she drew near the close of life, 
And death advanced with dying strife, 

She said, " Oh, do not weep." 
She could not bear to see them mourn, 
Her grief alone she oft had borne, 

When all were closed in sleep. 



Her tender mother did inquire, 
Where she would go should she expire, 

And where she hoped for rest ? 
She hoped through Christ her sins forgiven, 
And when she died to go to heaven, 

And dwell among the blest. 



When in the arms of death she smil'd, 
Her friends then said, Oh, tell us child, 

What is it now you see ? — 
I see my Jesus standing by, 
He says ; fear not, for it is I, 

I'm not afraid, 'tis He. 



How beautiful he doth appear, 

A wondrous light, it shines all clear, 

Oh can't you now him see ? 
I'm dying now, and all is well, 
I bid my friends a long farewell — ■ 

With Christ I hope to be. 



106 



ORIGINAL POETRY. 

Thus Eliza's heart with rapture flow'd, 
While death's cold arms did her enclose, 

And bid the world farewell. 
She dwells no doubt amid that host, 
Where Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, 

Their notes of praises swell. 

Oh may you all, dear children, be 
Prepared for vast eternity, 

When you are call'd to die. 
Remember God, while in your youth, 
Oh, turn to him, embrace the truth — 

Unto the Saviour fly. 

R. P. 1 




ORIGINAL POETRY. 107 



COMPOSED FOR THE SABBATH SCHOOL CHILDREN IN 

W- — , on the 4th or jult. Tune — ' Auld Lang 
Syne.' 

Come, children, with united voice, 

Instead of sport and play, 
Raise your triumphant notes to God, 
For Independent day. 

Our ancient Sires who were oppress'd, 

From England they did flee, 
Across the mighty ocean came, 

Then fought for liberty. 

They fought, they bled, they groan'd, they died, 

To set our country free ; 
Shall independence be forgot, 

That cost such agony ? 

It cost them blood to obtain their right, 

And set this people free ; 
How should their children now unite, 

In songs of harmony! 

What priv'leges we now enjoy, 

In this enlightened land ; 
Under our vine and fruit tree sit, 

No one our right demands. 



108 ORIGINAL POETRY. 

We now can go to Sabbath Schools, 

And there instructed be ; 
What blessings to the youth now flow. 

With laws of liberty ! 

Here we are taught how Jesus died, 

To save our souls from hell ; 
Now children raise your tuneful voice 

Aloud such wonders tell. 

Now while we celebrate this day, 

And o'er our blessings roam, 
Poor colored slaves in bondage lay, 

How doleful are their groans ! 

Now let us join in fervent prayer, 

That God their bondage break, 
That they with us such blessings share. 

And of his grace partake. 

O God, may heathen children all, 

With us these mercies share, 
Their little tawny faces shine, 

While they thy grace declare. 

R. P. PlNKHA»r.~ 



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